MRes – Establishing the impact of chemical mixtures on human health, an in vitro study of micro- and nanoplastic toxicity (Project ID SAS0213)

This laboratory-based project will look into the hazards posed to humans from exposure to chemical mixtures. Mixtures may be coincidental, incidental, or within intentional formulations, and we are exposed to chemical mixtures daily through air, water, food, consumer products, pharmaceuticals, and occupational settings. For example, pesticides and cosmetic products are often complex mixtures of intentional design, micro- and nanoplastics exposure may be to combinations of polymer particles and intentionally added chemicals or adsorbed environmental pollutants, while indoor and outdoor environments provide coincidental chemical exposures from lifestyle related products and activities. There is strong evidence that adverse effects to human health of combined substances increase disproportionally to the sum of their combined effects, raising serious health concerns and a need to better understand the interaction of chemical mixtures with human systems.

In this work we will look into micro- and nanoplastics and their associated chemicals. The global production and lack of adequate disposal of plastic products have led to a ubiquitous and persistent presence of gradually degrading plastics to nano- and microplastic particles, compounded by daily release from consumer products, there is considerable human exposure from indoor and outdoor environments. Micro- and nanoplastics have a complex chemical composition, with different polymer chemistries, thousands of chemical additives (including endocrine disrupting chemicals and hazardous flame retardants), adsorbed environmental pollutants (including heavy metals), and microbial communities colonising their surfaces. All contribute to significant concerns for human health.

This project will use in vitro methodology, and assess mammalian cells related to the respiratory system and the skin. In vitro methods will include assessment of key toxicologically-relevant endpoints, and will build biological understanding of how mammalian cells respond to micro- and nanoplastics and their associated chemicals, and how these relate to tissue responses and disease progression.

Training/skills developed: the applicant will participate in an exciting, academically stimulating MRes project, gaining practical and conceptual experience in cellular, molecular and toxicological methods, to enable a career in modern approaches to hazard testing, including how data from new approach methodologies (NAMs) in hazard testing can be used to study disease outcomes and toxicological endpoints by defining steps on an adverse outcome pathway (AOP).

You will also be a member of ENU Graduate College. Throughout your studies, you will receive support, training, and access to events hosted by our local SAS team and our Research, Innovation, and Enterprise events team. Tailored training will aid in the development of your research and transferable skills. You will become a part of a vibrant and growing community of postgraduate research students within the university, with access to workspace and social areas in our recently renovated researcher community suite.

Academic qualifications

A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in biological sciences with a good fundamental knowledge of  mammalian cellular and molecular biology.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

·        Experience of fundamental in vitro methodology. 

·        Competent in cell culture techniques (relating to mammalian cells).

·        Knowledge of in vitro toxicological endpoints used in hazard assessment

·        Good written and oral communication skills

·        Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project

·        Good time management

Desirable attributes:

·        Understanding of adverse outcome pathways, and of concepts relating to mixture toxicity.

TO APPLY PLEASE CLICK ON THE ‘INSTITUTION WEBSITE’ LINK ON THE RIGHT-HAND SIDE OF THIS PAGE.

When applying, please quote the application reference SAS0213 on your form.

 APPLICATION CHECKLIST

·        Completed application form 

·        CV

·        2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (Found on the application process page)

·        A personal research statement (This should include (a) a brief description of your relevant experience and skills, (b) an indication of

·        What you would uniquely bring to the project and (c) a statement of how this project fits with your future direction.)

·        Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)