Investigating nano and microplastic induced neurotoxicity in iPSC derived human models of neuronal networks.

Plastic degradation products are now recognized as emerging environmental threats which are of high global concern. The large volume of production, use and improper waste management have exacerbated the ubiquity of micro- and nanoplastics in various environmental matrices and their risks (Nielsen et al., Int. J. Ener. Res., 9: e360, 2020). From the human health perspective, a primary concern of plastic pollution in the environment is the inevitable breakdown into micro and nanoplastics, followed by oligomers and finally soluble or volatile chemicals. In our previous project we have established a methodology for synthesis of chemically and geometrically well-defined nanoparticle models for biological studies from commercially available common plastic materials: polystyrene (PS) from beanbag filling and coffee cup lids, Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which is commonly known as plexiglass, polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), which together account for a large amount of plastic waste found in the environment. These were shown to induce DNA damage, apoptosis, and the cell cycle alterations in the human lungs derived models in vitro (manuscript in preparation). Current evidence also suggests that upon uptake, micro- and nanoplastics can reach the brain, although there is extremely limited information regarding the potential neurotoxicity of these small plastic particles (Han et al., Neural Regen Res, 19:331-335, 2023). Our laboratory has recently developed a method for the establishment of microfluidic human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived neuronal and glia cells networks as a clinically relevant model for studies of neuronal injuries and neuroregenertion. This project will use this new experimental model system to establish the neurotoxicity mechanisms of model plastic nanoparticles in human neuronal networks.

PhD programmes are for those who are seeking to develop greater in-depth knowledge in a specific area. Completing this level of study is about making an original contribution to knowledge, making new discoveries and developing lifelong skills. 

At Aston University, our Engineering and Physical Sciences PhD programmes will provide all the support and facilities you will need to develop into a leading researcher in your chosen field.  You will be welcomed into a supportive community with a shared enthusiasm for original research, where diversity and multidisciplinary is championed.

For formal enquiries about this project contact:

Dr Boris Kysela
Dr Dan Ma

Candidates should have been awarded, or expect to achieve, EITHER:
•    A Bachelors degree in a relevant subject with an award of First Class or 2.1. 
OR 
•    A Bachelors degree in a relevant subject with an award of First Class or 2.1, and a Masters degree in a relevant subject with an award of Merit or higher.
Qualifications from other countries which are considered by Aston University to be equivalent to that described above will be eligible to apply.

Essential criteria:
•    Good Coding Skill and willing to evolve them along the journey. 
•    Basics on IP networking
 

We can only consider applications that are complete and have all supporting documents. Applications that do not provide all the relevant documents will be automatically rejected. Your application must include: 

1. English language copies of the transcripts and certificates for all your higher education degrees, including any Bachelor degrees.
    
2. A Research Statement detailing your understanding of the research area, how you would approach the project, and a brief review of relevant literature. Be sure to use the title of the research project you are applying for. There is no set format or word count. 
    
3. A personal statement which outlines any further information which you think is relevant to your application, such as your personal suitability for research, career aspirations, possible future research interests, and further description of relevant employment experience. 
    
4. Two academic referees who can discuss your suitability for independent research. References must be on headed paper, signed and dated no more than 2 years old. At least one reference should be from your most recent University. You can submit your references at a later date if necessary. 
    
5. Evidence that you meet the English Language requirements. If you do not currently meet the language requirements, you can submit this at a later stage. 
    
6. A copy of your passport. Where relevant, include evidence of settled or pre-settled status.

Interviews

Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams. If you are shortlisted, you will be contacted directly with details of the interview.  

Contact information

For formal enquiries about this project, contact Dr David Benton

Studying a PhD is great route into academia and industries that are centred on research and innovation. Areas with a demand for very high level and specialised research skills often demand PhDs.

In addition to this specialist knowledge, PhD education will help you to develop a set of valuable transferrable skills. The very nature of studying an intensive research degree will enable you to become a team player, develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and advanced presentation and communication skills.

The variety of PhD project topics at Aston means that the destinations of our graduates vary substantially. Some choose to continue into academia, at either Aston or other leading institutions, while others go onto use their newly acquired skills in a range of research, healthcare, industry or charitable fields. When selecting your chosen PhD path at Aston, your supervisor will be able to provide you with relevant career opportunities that could be available to you in your specialist area.