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PhD Studentship - Skeletal muscle development during embryogenesis using the zebrafish as a model

School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary, University of London

The research proposal will investigate how the structure of skeletal muscle is regulated by extracellular mechanical stimulation (contraction) during embryogenesis. The outcome of the research will advance our understanding of skeletal muscle development and has relevance to muscle disease in which normal muscle function is perturbed, informing more clinically-directed studies.

Myofibril organisation, essentially the alignment of contractile units (sarcomeres), is critical for skeletal muscle function. Using the zebrafish as a model to study embryo development, our work has revealed that contractile activity (mechanically-induced signals) regulates myofibril alignment during development in vivo. Mechanotransduction is already known to play a key role in the maintaining the structure of mature striated muscle (both skeletal and cardiac); however, the signalling pathways remain undefined. The project will examine muscle structure in immotile lines carrying mutations in key proteins and also characterise changes in the expression of candidate genes. The zebrafish has several advantages for study in an intact embryo as its development is rapid and the early stages are fully transparent making it easy to visualise.

The project will develop skills in bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques, in vivo experimental approaches and methods of imaging biological material. The student will acquire knowledge of developmental physiology and an understanding of how animal models are used for research. Training includes instruction and experience in animal handling in line within current home office legislation.

This four-year funded Graduate Teaching Studentship will commence on 1st September 2010. Funding will cover all tuition fees and an annual stipend (£15290 in 2009/10).

In addition to being registered for a research degree, students will be required to undertake teaching duties, to consist of demonstrating to undergraduate modules, marking coursework and giving feedback to students.

Applications are invited from candidates with, or expecting to be awarded at least an upper-second class honours degree in an area relevant to the project.

Further details and information on how to apply are availabe via APPLY NOW