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Sudden cardiac death resulting from disturbances in heart rhythm is a major cause of death globally. It is known that changes in the structure and function of heart muscle cells (cardiac myocytes) can lead to serious arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Yet the underlying mechanisms linking such changes with arrhythmias are incompletely understood. Better understanding of these pathological mechanisms, and whether they can be regulated, could lead to identification of new therapies for heart disease.
This project will use transgenic mouse models of the human inherited heart disease catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) to identify the cellular mechanisms governing electrical abnormalities and arrhythmias [1]. CPVT is usually caused by mutations in genes involved in excitation-contraction coupling, such as the ryanodine receptor calcium release channel. In particular, spontaneous calcium release (known as calcium sparks) from the sarcoplasmic reticulum is increased in many forms of heart disease and can trigger spontaneous action potentials. Our recent work has identified new forms of spontaneous calcium release that can initiate arrhythmias in single cardiac myocytes [2,3]. However, relatively little is known about how these calcium release events arise, their effect at the whole organ level, and whether their behaviour can be controlled. This project will investigate whether novel regulators of ryanodine receptors can correct the abnormal calcium leak in isolated ventricular myocytes and prevent arrhythmias.
This project is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in a broad range of scientific methodologies. We have a selection of cutting edge tools at our disposal to investigate these links, spanning from molecular biology and cellular physiology, through to in vivo studies using genetically modified organisms and mathematical modelling approaches.
Scientific training opportunities in the laboratory include but are not limited to:
- Super-resolution live cell confocal microscopy
- Patch clamp electrophysiology
- Cardiac optical mapping
- In vivo cardiac phenotyping
Transferrable skills will include:
- Learning to utilise MATLAB and other programming environments for data analysis and computer simulations
- Presentation skills for effectively communicating your research at group meetings, larger departmental meetings and international conferences
Good candidates will have a strong interest in cardiovascular physiology and disease, and will either have or be about to obtain a Masters or Undergraduate degree at 1st class or 2.1 level (or equivalent), with substantial laboratory research project experience in a relevant area (such as experimental physiology).
For informal discussions please contact Dr Ewan Fowler, FowlerED@Cardiff.ac.uk
How to apply:
You can apply online – consideration is automatic on applying for a PhD in Biosciences, with an July 2026 start date.
Please use our online application service at https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/biosciences-phd-mphil-md
and specify in the funding section state the name of the funder/that you wish to be considered for School of Biosciences funding.
Please specify that you are applying for this particular project and the supervisor.
Information on the application process can be found here http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/applying
Application deadline: 29/05/2026
Funding Notes
The studentship will commence in July 2026 and will cover your tuition fees (at UK level) as well as a maintenance grant. In 2025-2026 the maintenance grant for full-time students was £20,780 per annum. As well as tuition fees and a maintenance grant, all School of Biosciences students receive access to courses offered by the University’s Doctoral Academy and become members of the University Doctoral Academy
As only one studentship is available and a very high standard of applications is typically received, the successful applicant is likely to have a very good first degree (a First or Upper Second class BSc Honours or equivalent) and/or be distinguished by having relevant research experience.
References
References:
[1] DOI: 10.1016/j.jmccpl.2025.100466 [2] DOI: 10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.117.312257 [3] DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1918649117
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