Start Date: October 2015.

Supervisor: Dr Aram Saeed, aram.saeed<στο>uea.ac.uk

The Project:

Cataract (a clouding) of the lens is a consequence of the ageing and is a major priority in the global initiative to eliminate avoidable blindness by the year 2020.  At present, the only means of treating cataract is by surgery, which initially restores high-quality vision, and this is now the commonest operation performed in the Western World.  Unfortunately, secondary cataract develops in a significant proportion of patients caused by migration of cells onto the new lens, thus scattering the light. Accordingly, our project seeks to design and manufacture polymeric implantable devices to prevent the cell migration phenomena that creates secondary cataract.

The primary and secondary supervisors are Dr Aram Saeed (School of Pharmacy) and Dr Michael Wormstone (School of Biology).

Essential skills for potential candidate: background in polymer chemistry, polymerisation techniques, and material characterisations. 

Desirable background and skills: Organic chemistry, cell biology, HPLC, GPC, cell culture techniques and 3D printing.

References: All applicants must provide two most recent academic reference letters, clearly reflecting on the applicant’s academic performances.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants should have, desirable 1^st degree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biomedical Engineering or Material Science

Funding:

This 3 year PhD studentship is funded by the Faculty of Science.  Funding comprises home/EU tuition fees, an annual stipend of £14,057 and £1000 per annum to support research training.  Overseas applicants may apply but they will be required to fund the difference between home/EU and overseas fees (in 2015/16 the difference is £12,648 but fees are subject to an annual increase).

To discuss the application process or particular projects, please contact the: Admissions Office, email:pgr.enquiries.admiss<στο>uea.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1603 591709.