PhD Studentship: Investigating the role of pericytes in Exercise-induced Pulmonary haemorrhage disease and progression
University of Surrey
This project sits at the cutting edge of equine biomedical research and aims to transform our understanding of a condition that significantly impacts racehorse welfare and performance. Building on the supervisory groups emerging molecular insights into EIPH, the project will explore micro-vasulature dysfunction in the initiation and progression of disease, with the ultimate goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets and strategies to improve clinical outcomes. The successful candidate will develop skills in 3...
This project sits at the cutting edge of equine biomedical research and aims to transform our understanding of a condition that significantly impacts racehorse welfare and performance. Building on the supervisory groups emerging molecular insights into EIPH, the project will explore micro-vasulature dysfunction in the initiation and progression of disease, with the ultimate goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets and strategies to improve clinical outcomes. The successful candidate will develop skills in 3...
Opportunity details
This project sits at the cutting edge of equine biomedical research and aims to transform our understanding of a condition that significantly impacts racehorse welfare and performance. Building on the supervisory groups emerging molecular insights into EIPH, the project will explore micro-vasulature dysfunction in the initiation and progression of disease, with the ultimate goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets and strategies to improve clinical outcomes. The successful candidate will develop skills in 3D cell culture models, multi-omics and more. We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in translational veterinary research. The ideal applicant will bring enthusiasm for interdisciplinary science, a willingness to engage with both laboratory and clinically relevant research, and a commitment to improving animal health and welfare. Experience in cell biology, vascular biology, or molecular techniques would be advantageous, but above all, we are looking for someone with drive, critical thinking skills, and a passion for discovery. Exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH) affects 50–75% of racehorses in fast work and is a major cause of poor performance and, in severe cases, sudden death. Despite its high prevalence, the mechanisms driving disease onset and progression remain poorly understood, limiting effective treatment options. EIPH shares features with the human condition pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), where dysfunction of vascular support cells—pericytes—drives pathology. Pericytes play a key role in maintaining microvascular stability and lung integrity, yet their role in EIPH has not been explored. This project will provide the first comprehensive investigation of pericytes in equine EIPH, with the aim of identifying...
Eligibility
Open to UK and EU eligible candidates. Starting in April 2027. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Dr Susan Armstrong once the deadline passes. You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme. This is basic research with a strong molecular, cellular and bioinformatic focus project and undergraduates with a degree in a related discipline would be expected. Medical and veterinary graduates are encouraged to apply. A Master’s degree in related subject is desirable and previous experience in a laboratory environment with some statistical methodology is desirable. How to apply Applications should be submitted via the Veterinary Medicine and Science PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor. Applicants are invited to contact: Dr Susan K. Armstrong (susan.armstrong@surrey.ac.uk), Prof K. Jeevaratnam (k.jeevaratnam@surrey.ac.uk) or Assoc. Prof P. Campagnolo (p.campagnolo@surrey.ac.uk) to discuss the project informally prior to making an application. Funding Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k). Application deadline: 17/01/27 Enquiries: Contact Dr Susan Armstrong Ref: PGR-2627-001
Requirements
Open to UK and EU eligible candidates. Starting in April 2027. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Dr Susan Armstrong once the deadline passes. You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme. This is basic research with a strong molecular, cellular and bioinformatic focus project and undergraduates with a degree in a related discipline would be expected. Medical and veterinary graduates are encouraged to apply. A Master’s degree in related subject is desirable and previous experience in a laboratory environment with some statistical methodology is desirable. How to apply Applications should be submitted via the Veterinary Medicine and Science PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor. Applicants are invited to contact: Dr Susan K. Armstrong (susan.armstrong@surrey.ac.uk), Prof K. Jeevaratnam (k.jeevaratnam@surrey.ac.uk) or Assoc. Prof P. Campagnolo (p.campagnolo@surrey.ac.uk) to discuss the project informally prior to making an application. Funding Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k). Application deadline: 17/01/27 Enquiries: Contact Dr Susan Armstrong Ref: PGR-2627-001
Funding and benefits
Funding eligibility: UK Students, EU Students. Funding amount: Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100). Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k).
Required documents
research proposal
How to apply
Applications should be submitted via the Veterinary Medicine and Science PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor. Applicants are invited to contact: Dr Susan K. Armstrong (susan.armstrong@surrey.ac.uk), Prof K. Jeevaratnam (k.jeevaratnam@surrey.ac.uk) or Assoc. Prof P. Campagnolo (p.campagnolo@surrey.ac.uk) to discuss the project informally prior to making an application. Funding Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k). Application deadline: 17/01/27 Enquiries: Contact Dr Susan Armstrong Ref: PGR-2627-001
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Recorded source check: October 8, 2026. A stored check date does not guarantee that every field is complete or still current. Compare the provider, eligibility, funding and deadline with the live official call before applying.
Benefits
Funding eligibility: UK Students, EU Students. Funding amount: Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100). Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k).
Eligibility summary
Open to UK and EU eligible candidates. Starting in April 2027. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Dr Susan Armstrong once the deadline passes. You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme. This is basic research with a strong molecular, cellular and bioinformatic focus project and undergraduates with a degree in a related discipline would be expected. Medical and veterinary graduates are encouraged to apply. A Master’s degree in related subject is desirable and previous experience in a laboratory environment with some statistical methodology is desirable. How to apply Applications should be submitted via the Veterinary Medicine and Science PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor. Applicants are invited to contact: Dr Susan K. Armstrong (susan.armstrong@surrey.ac.uk), Prof K. Jeevaratnam (k.jeevaratnam@surrey.ac.uk) or Assoc. Prof P. Campagnolo (p.campagnolo@surrey.ac.uk) to discuss the project informally prior to making an application. Funding Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k). Application deadline: 17/01/27 Enquiries: Contact Dr Susan Armstrong Ref: PGR-2627-001
Requirements
Open to UK and EU eligible candidates. Starting in April 2027. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Dr Susan Armstrong once the deadline passes. You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme. This is basic research with a strong molecular, cellular and bioinformatic focus project and undergraduates with a degree in a related discipline would be expected. Medical and veterinary graduates are encouraged to apply. A Master’s degree in related subject is desirable and previous experience in a laboratory environment with some statistical methodology is desirable. How to apply Applications should be submitted via the Veterinary Medicine and Science PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor. Applicants are invited to contact: Dr Susan K. Armstrong (susan.armstrong@surrey.ac.uk), Prof K. Jeevaratnam (k.jeevaratnam@surrey.ac.uk) or Assoc. Prof P. Campagnolo (p.campagnolo@surrey.ac.uk) to discuss the project informally prior to making an application. Funding Fees for UK or EU eligible candidates are covered. Year 1 stipend will be above standard UKRI level for non-vets (£24,400) and vets, veterinary graduates will receive a further increment (£30,100k). Application deadline: 17/01/27 Enquiries: Contact Dr Susan Armstrong Ref: PGR-2627-001
Documents required
research proposal
Language/test requirements
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