Transport of nanoparticles in ciliated systems

We are thrilled to announce up to two PhD studentship positions for highly motivated individuals: one for an experimentalist and one for a theoretical/computational researcher.

Project Overview

Motile cilia play a crucial role in clearing pathogens and pollutants from the lungs by beating collectively to transport fluid. However, the contribution of fluid transport to this process remains poorly understood, limiting our knowledge of viral infections and the delivery of nanoparticle-based treatments.

We will investigate how the biophysical properties of nanoparticles (NPs) influence their interactions with cilia. We will study a variety of particles, including virus-like nanoparticles, relevant to both nanomedicine and viral infections.

Approach

Our interdisciplinary approach combines high-speed imaging and microfluidics to measure cilia and particle dynamics at the cellular level. Mathematical and computational modelling will be employed to interpret experimental data, uncovering fundamental principles of particle transport in ciliated tissues and developing assays to test engineered nanoparticles.

Join our group: We are an interdisciplinary research group, and our members have come from diverse backgrounds, including engineering, biosciences, and computer science. Be part of a dynamic, collaborative team and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in biophysics.

Apply now to embark on an exciting journey to understand and manipulate particle transport in ciliated tissues!