University of Glasgow
Researcher PHD Student
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Periodontitis and Systemic Disease
Periodontitis is one of the most common chronic inflammatory diseases worldwide and is increasingly associated with a range of serious systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer's disease, respiratory disorders, and certain cancers. While these associations are well established, the biological mechanisms linking oral disease to systemic illness remain poorly understood.
A leading hypothesis is that bacteria from the dysbiotic periodontal microbiome, or immune cells altered by exposure to these bacteria, enter the bloodstream and travel to distant tissues, driving chronic inflammation. Previous work has identified periodontal pathogens, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, associated with circulating immune cells, suggesting that specific immune cell populations may act as "carriers" transporting oral bacteria throughout the body. These cells have also been detected within atherosclerotic plaques, highlighting a potential role in cardiovascular disease progression.
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About the PhD Project
This PhD project will use state-of-the-art single-cell sequencing technologies to investigate how oral bacteria interact with circulating immune cells and influence their behaviour, providing new insight into the links between periodontitis and systemic disease.
This PhD opportunity is a collaboration between the University of Glasgow Dental School and Industry Partners from Haleon, a multinational consumer healthcare company, whose purpose is to deliver better everyday health.
Responsibilities
- Conduct and coordinate clinical studies
- Sample collection
- Single-cell RNA sequencing and 16S analysis
- State-of-the-art laboratory immune profiling techniques
- Public engagement and scientific presentations
- Work within a multidisciplinary team
- Regular updates and industry-led training events with Haleon
Requirements
- Minimum of an upper second-class honours BSc
- Relevant experience in immunology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, or a healthcare profession
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Funding Notes
- Enhanced annual stipend, UKRI rates (£21,383 for 2026-27) + £2000/year top-up from Industry Partner (Haleon)
- Bench fees: £10,000 per year
- This prestigious studentship covers tuition fees, an annual stipend in excess of the UKRI rate for 3.5 years of studies, and a generous budget for study running costs
- This studentship offers only Home fees for UK students or students who are eligible for Home fees (e.g., those with settled status or of Irish citizenship)
How to Apply
To apply, visit FULLY FUNDED PhD - How Gingival Inflammation Drives Systemic Inflammation: Decoding the Clues in Blood Cells using INVADEseq at University of Glasgow on FindAPhd.com
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