Channels and Transporters PhD – (Ph.D.)

PhD programmes are based on individual research projects that last 3 or 4 years, working with a specific academic supervisor (principle investigators). Applicants are specifically matched with a principle investigator based on their research interests and background.

The vast majority of chronic diseases can be related to abnormal structure or function of one or more membrane transport proteins. Research within the Channels and Transporters group spans the molecular structure, function and regulation of these important proteins, as well as their pharmacology and role in disease. Particular areas of interest include pancreatic stem cells and diabetes, fluid and electrolyte transport in epithelial cells, chloride channels in the choroid plexus, potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells, cardiac and neuronal voltage gated calcium channels, oxygen-sensing ion channels, urea transporters and calcium-sensing receptors in the kidney and vasculature. Research addresses the characterisation of ion channel and transporter genes, trafficking and localisation of ion channels in the membrane, spatio-temporal patterning of cytosolic calcium signals and other signalling pathways, such as the inositol lipids. Future work will continue to advance knowledge and understanding of transport mechanisms in these physiologically important areas.