Molecular, biophysical and regulatory characterisation of ion transport pathways in the human skin apocrine gland

We invite applicants for a fully-funded Industrial (Unilever) CASE studentship to explore a poorly understood secretory pathway in human skin. Skin is the largest organ in the human body and forms a protective layer against the environment. While the human eccrine sweat gland is known to be crucial in cooling the body by secreting a salty fluid (sweat) onto the skin surface, the function of the apocrine sweat gland is less clear. Apocrine glands located in the axillae (underarm) secrete a milky fluid into the lumen of the hair follicle which is subsequently metabolised by bacteria to produce malodorous compounds. They are not thought to participate in thermoregulation and little is known about their function or the molecular mechanisms that drive apocrine secretion.   

This project will use a multi-disciplinary approach to characterise the molecular and regulatory mechanisms involved in apocrine sweat production. It offers an exceptional opportunity to train across a range of disciplines and to experience both academic and industrial research environments. Methodologies will include cell culture, molecular biology, fluorescent imaging, patch clamp electrophysiology, proteomics and bioinformatics / in silico computer modelling. The work will occur at two sites: the Institute of Systems, Molecular & Integrative Biology (ISMIB), University of Liverpool, and Unilever Research & Development, Port Sunlight. Ultimately, the project aims to provide the first integrated model of ion transport systems involved in apocrine sweat gland secretory cells and will allow the student to develop an understanding of the nature of academic:industrial collaborations and industrially-relevant research questions.

The project will require a student with a First or Upper Second Class BSc degree in Biological or Life Sciences. Start date for the project is Autumn 2024.

How to apply

Please forward your CV, a personal statement, details of your qualifications (copies of certificates and transcripts) and a copy of your passport photo page to c.dart@liverpool.ac.uk by the closing date of Monday 5th August 2024.