EastBio Student Cohort 2025

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Leveraging synthetic biology tools to characterize cell-cell interactions in organoid models of human skin.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Mattias Malaguti

Project Summary

My PhD project aims to characterize how cell communication between keratinocytes and melanocytes regulates the maintenance of healthy skin. Cell-cell communication governs a wide range of processes in mammalian development; however, it is difficult to decode the exact information cells are sharing with each other due to limitations in our ability to identify interacting cells in an unbiased high-throughput manner. To address this, my project will leverage synthetic biology tools that allow us to fluorescently label cell neighbors of interest in order to identify, isolate, and profile interacting cells. I will utilize this technology to generate organoid models of human skin with neighbor-labeling capabilities. These models will allow us to molecularly characterize cell communication events occurring between keratinocytes and melanocytes using a combination of single-cell omics data and quantitative image analysis. 

Personal Note

I'm originally from Dallas, TX but have spent most of my adult life in Chicago, IL where I got my BS in Biology and BA in Dance from Loyola University Chicago. After graduating, I spent 2 years as a Research Technologist in the Carvill lab at Northwestern University analyzing the genetic causes of epilepsy - namely, the impact of CHD2 on neuronal development in cerebral organoids. Afterwards, I spent a year as a Research Associate in the Biological Modeling Laboratory at Tempus AI generating organoids from human tumor samples to be used in various cancer drug assays. I later returned to the Carvill lab and started the journey of applying to graduate school. Outside of lab, I am a professional dancer and have a passion for using dance to make science more accessible. I have created several dance films that have been showcased at benefit concerts, science communication conferences, and the international Dance your PhD competition. 

University of Aberdeen

Project Title

Resistance isn’t futile: Uncovering novel antifungals to combat drug resistance.

Primary Supervisor

Dr. Delma Childers

Project Summary

Antifungal drug resistance is an underappreciated global threat to agriculture and human health. In terms of human health, Candida species contribute to ~400,000 deaths globally each year with a crude mortality rate of 30-60% depending on species and geographical location. Antifungal drug resistance is increasing in incidence, particularly for species like Candida glabrata and Candida auris. For these reasons the World Health Organization have labelled these pathogens as high priorities for research and renewed calls for novel antifungal development.

Certain fermented products, like kefir, have antimicrobial activity towards food pathogens, spoilage bacteria, and some fungal strains. Kefir products contain several chemical compounds and peptides, but it is not clear which components are specifically antifungal. At least one peptide has confirmed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli. We therefore hypothesise that kefir-derived peptides may demonstrate antifungal activity against Candida species and represent a novel antifungal therapeutic.

Personal Note

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Hons: Genetics) at the University of Edinburgh, and I graduated from my Master’s degree (Molecular Medicine) at the University of Aberdeen with a Distinction and the “Molecular Medicine Excellence Award” for obtaining the highest GPA in my course.

I have since gained experience working in science-related roles, including in research laboratories, through employment as a Research Technician with 4D Pharma Ltd. working towards producing novel vaccines, as a Technician at the University of Aberdeen Science Teaching Hub preparing reagents and equipment for student practical classes, and as an R&D Scientist at NCIMB developing designer probiotics.

University of Dundee

Project Title

Imaging of parasite immunomodulators to reveal functional localisation and potential for use as vaccines

Primary Supervisor

Dr Henry McSorley

Project Summary

Parasitic infections can present a huge burden on the health, wellbeing and productivity of livestock as current treatments are insufficient. Inside hosts, parasites release a wide array of proteins which can suppress host immune responses, enabling chronic infection. This immune suppression along with major changes in protein expression throughout the development of many parasites has made development of vaccines against them challenging. In this project we will aim to develop vaccines for known immunomodulators released by a model organism for helminth infections, H. polygyrus. Additionally, the resulting antibodies against immunomodulators along with existing antibodies and nanobodies will be used to assess the localisation of these immunomodulators, revealing their targets for immune modulation.

Personal Note

After moving to Dundee to study Biochemistry for my undergraduate degree I fell in love with parasitology. Now I have returned to the lab where I completed my honours project and cemented my passion for the field to begin my PhD. Likely due to growing up in a small village in Scotland, I enjoy spending time in nature when I can, whether hiking a mountain or exploring forests, looking at the mosses and lichens. I also enjoy learning about random topics that will likely never be useful to me with some current examples being aquarium building and medieval armour.

University of Aberdeen

Project Title

Orphan GPCRs: Cracking the Function Code - No Ligand Required!

Primary Supervisor

Dr Fiona Murray

Project Summary

Due to their tissue-specific expression, membrane localisation, and key role in cellular signalling, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have become a major focus for discovery. Orphan GPCRs, those for which the endogenous ligand is unknown, represent untapped clinical potential due to the challenges associated with receptor deorphanization. 
This project focuses on GPR75, an orphan GPCR which has emerged as a potential target for the treatment of metabolic disease and has previously been shown to demonstrate ligand-independent activity. We aim to uncover the role of structural motifs, membrane composition, and the cellular microenvironment in the modulation this activity, using our findings to further explore the pharmacological potential of GPR75 and aid in the advancement of ligand-screening platforms and targeted drug discovery approaches. 

Personal Note

Hello, I'm Anna! I was born and raised in Ireland but moved to sunny Scotland in 2019 to complete my BSc in Pharmacology at the University of Aberdeen. During my undergraduate studies, I undertook an internship position at EnteroBiotix, a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing microbiome-based therapies. I then completed my MSc in Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Aberdeen, carrying out my research project on the role of GPR75 in prostate cancer under the supervision of Dr Fiona Murray. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to go back to the Murray lab and am excited to get started with my PhD. Outside of my studies, you will mostly find me in the gym, reading, out walking, or doing a crossword!

University of Dundee

Project Title

A chemical toolbox to investigate protein-protein interactions and their impact on mitophagy signalling. 

Primary Supervisor

Dr Will Farnaby

Project Summary

My research is in developing a chemical toolbox to investigate protein-protein interactions that are part of the processes that control mitophagy in cells. Mitophagy is the selective degradation of mitochondria via autophagy. To keep a cell functioning as it should old or damaged mitochondria are degraded, but this is not the case in a range of diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease. By this research we hope to understand the signalling processes that control mitophagy and therefore open the doors to therapeutics to treat diseases via this pathway. 

Personal Note

Hi I am Hannah, 
I am from Dumfries in southwest Scotland and enjoy being outside climbing hills. I have a background in synthetic organic chemistry having completed an MChem in Chemistry specialising in Medicinal Chemistry at the University of St Andrews. But I am particularly interested in the application of this knowledge in biology. 
As part of my degree, I did a year in industry working for Sygnature Discovery, a drug discovery CRO, in Nottingham. While there, I worked on the development of high-throughput chemistry methods to enhance early stage drug discovery of PROTACs for cancer therapies.  This sparked an interest in targeted protein degradation, and induced proximity to develop disease treatments and hence I am excited to be undertaking this PhD in the Centre of Targeted Protein Degradation in Dundee.

University of St Andrews

Project Title

Precision Molecule editing in Drug Discovery.

Primary Supervisor

Professor Rebecca Goss

Personal Note

I Graduated with an MChem from the University of York, spending a year in Sendai for my masters project using light driven reactions to create radical addition products. I then spent the following year working as a teaching lab assistant in the York Chemistry department developing new teaching practicals, offering support in undergraduate lab days and training incoming PhD students as new GTA's.

I like to spend my free time improving my digital sketching skills, collecting vinyl's from vintage stores and cooking/baking new recipes I find.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Closing the genotype-to-phenotype gap: leveraging multi-omics data to transform precision selection in pigs

Primary Supervisor

Dr. Ivan Pocrnic

Project Summary

In contemporary livestock breeding, quantitative genetics models are used to select breeding animals to enhance productivity, reproduction and health. These models, that aim to predict an animal’s future phenotypes from just their genotypes, allow for biological discovery by delving into the genetic architecture of the traits. Large amounts of whole-genome sequences have been tested in these models but have yielded only modest gains in phenotype prediction accuracy. One of the reasons is likely their oversimplification of trying to predict phenotypes solely from genome-wide genotypes, ignoring the complexity of molecular biology. In this project, I will develop a data-driven approach to integrate multi-omic data to bridge the gap between genotypes and complex phenotypes. I will investigate how multi-omic data can be used to improve the discovery of biologically relevant genes and the prediction accuracy of hard-to-measure traits in swine to improve genetic gain and profitability. 

Personal Note

I am from Ontario, Canada, where I received my Bachelors of Science and Masters in Animal Genetics and Breeding from the University of Guelph. My Master's research focused on investigating the genetic potential of feed efficiency traits in dairy calves, contributing to ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability and efficiency in the Canadian dairy sector. In my free time, I enjoy horseback riding, reading, and spending time with my dogs. 

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Development of High-Efficiency Landing Pads for Protein Production in Pichia pastoris.

Primary Supervisor

Prof Giovanni Stracquadanio

Project Summary

Pichia pastoris has several advantages as a recombinant protein expression system, including rapid growth and its ability for post-translational modifications. Nonetheless, stable integration of the heterologous gene remains challenging. This project, in collaboration with Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, aims to introduce genomic landing pads (engineered DNA sequences) at highly expressed loci. This will facilitate stable and reliable heterologous gene integration and improve recombinant protein yields. Ultimately, the engineered system will be validated employing Human Factor H and α-galactosidase.

Personal Note

Originally from Italy, I moved to Edinburgh in 2021, where I completed my BSc Hons in Biological Sciences (Biotechnology). During my undergraduate studies, I undertook a BBSRC-funded summer placement at the University of Manchester, which consolidated my interest in research and acted as a catalyst when deciding to pursue a PhD. In my spare time, I enjoy watching films, reading, and playing table tennis. 

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Co-infection, metabolism and lamb survival: an investigation into the factors that underpin sustainable lamb production in UK sheep flock. 

Primary Supervisor

Dr Rob Kelly

Project Summary

Improving lamb survival is one of the biggest challenges when farming sheep, especially on a hill farm where conditions are tough and margins are tight. Might project will look at how the health of ewes (nutrition, metabolic, infection, parasites) influences how well their lambs survive, grow and thrive. While we know these issues matter, we don't yet fully understand how they interact in real farming systems, particularly on hill farms. I'll start my project using existing data from two other projects (one from AHDB and the other one is a Welsh project). Building on that, I'll work hope to design a field study on hill flocks that follows ewes and lambs through the year. The aim of my project is to generate practical knowledge that cam help farmers improve lamb survival, improve flock health and sustainability and supports the future of hill farming. 

Personal Note

I graduated in 2020 from Ghent University with a Masters in Veterinary medicine with my main subject on ruminants. For the last five years, I worked as a mixed vet in the Scottish Highlands. Earlier this year my husband and I took on a large hill farm in Aberfeldy (Perthshire) on which we farm about 900 Scottish Blackface Sheep and 20 Luing cattle. Alongside running the farm with my husband, our two young children, and a happy team of working dogs, I decided to fully focus on my passion: flock health. So, I swapped mixed vetting for this (a part time) PhD and combine research with a role as sheep vet/consultant working mainly with hill farms. By bringing together farming, sheep vetting and research, I hope to bridge the gap between science and practice and play a small part in securing the future of our flocks and the communities that depend on them. 

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Design and synthesis of chemical probes to understand the role of glucokinase in pancreatic β-cell function.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Christopher Coxon

Project Summary

Glucokinase inhibition may offer an interesting strategy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In this project, we aim to design, synthesise and evaluate new and selective glucokinase inhibitors to probe the role of glucokinase in pancreatic β-cell function.

Personal Note

I completed my undergraduate degree in chemistry at Imperial College London and spent my final year abroad at Leiden University in the Netherlands where I designed, synthesised and evaluated covalent inhibitors as new antibiotics and bacterial cysteine probes for my master's research project in the Hacker group. Here, I really enjoyed having a split between the chemistry and biology labs and being able to take the compounds I had made into biology to see them at work. And so, I am similarly excited to begin this medicinal chemistry PhD project. 

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Investigating antiviral mechanisms during embryogenesis.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Sara Macias

Project Summary

The major innate immune response against viruses, the type I interferon response, is inactive during the very early days of embryonic development. As such, mammalian embryos may have developed alternative strategies to defend against viruses. We hypothesize that embryonic-specific RNA-binding proteins may act as powerful antiviral mechanisms. To test this, this project will screen a selected group of RNA-binding proteins predicted to protect cells from viruses. CRISPR-mediated technologies will be used to inactivate the genes of interest to measure antiviral resistance. Molecular biology techniques, including iCLIP and pull-downs coupled with mass spectrometry, will be used to identify the mechanism by which RNA-binding proteins act as antiviral factors. We expect to find novel mechanisms by which cells defend against viruses, especially important during embryonic development.

Personal Note

Hi, I’m Holly. My interest in molecular biology first began as a young student in London, where I was inspired amazing teachers and open invite seminars in the city. My fascination with understanding the rules of life only grew stronger as I learnt more, and as we all know, there's much to learn.

I went on to pursue a BSc in Molecular Biology at the University of Aberdeen, where I completed my honours project under the supervision of Professor Jonathan Pettitt in the Aberdeen Worm Lab, investigating cap-adjacent methylation of RNA. Building on this foundation, I completed an MSc at Aberdeen, focusing on the role of WNT signalling during early embryonic lineage differentiation in human naïve pluripotent stem cells.
Now, I’m eager to bring together these experiences and interests as I embark on my PhD, exploring the molecular processes that underlie antiviral defence during embryogenesis.

Outside of research, I enjoy art, socialising, music, rowing, and hiking in the Scottish Highlands.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

The Genetics of Ageing in a Wild Animal.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Dan Nussey

Project Summary

Ageing, the decline in physiological function, varies widely among individuals and is shaped by both genes and environment. While laboratory studies highlight conserved biochemical pathways, their role in natural populations remains poorly understood. This project will investigate why individuals differ in how they age, using 40 years of data from the long-term study of Soay sheep on St Kilda. It will address three main questions: (1) Are lifespan and ageing rates in different fitness-related traits influenced by genetics? (2) Are specific genes or gene regions driving these effects, and are these associated with the same pathways identified in laboratory studies of ageing? (3) Does the environment influence the way genes shape longevity and ageing rates in the wild? The project will combine quantitative genetics, genome-wide association analysis and statistical modelling to uncover the genetic and environmental factors of ageing in a natural population.

Personal Note

Hi, my name is Ianna, I am originally from Brazil, but I have lived in the USA and Portugal before I moved to Edinburgh in 2020. I have always been fascinated by the evolutionary history of natural populations. I am particularly interested in how genetic and environmental factors interact to shape organisms. My academic journey started with bats, where I focused on biogeography of oceanic islands. This experience connects directly to my PhD on ageing, where understanding how genetic variation translates into phenotypic differences and, consequently, differential survival rates in wild sheep is a key focus. I am excited to explore the complex relationship between genetics and environment in the process of senescence. Outside of academia, I am a nerd, I like to play games, including boardgames and role-playing games with friends. I also like anime, sci-fi movies, and geek culture in general.

Scotland's Rural College

Project Title

Food motivation in horses; from behaviour to genetics.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Ruth Morgan

Project Summary

Our project is in three parts, the first is the development of methods to accurately quantify food motivation in horses as measured by behavioural testing, analysis of grazing behaviour and owner questionnaires. From this we will develop a simplified composite testing regime which can be rolled out to a larger number of obese-prone and non-obese prone breeds to test our hypothesis that food motivation is correlated with obesity risk. In the final part we will start to unpick the genetic basis of intrinsic food motivation.

Personal Note

As a qualified equine behaviourist with a BSc in Equine Behavioural Science, MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour, and currently undertaking a PhD in equine behaviour and genetics, I have developed extensive expertise in equine and animal behaviour. My career spans international experience as a stud groom and head young horse trainer, alongside working with respected organisations including the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC), International Society for Equitation Science (ISES), Horses and People, The Pony Club, The Guardian, The Independent, LBC and more.

My work is dedicated to promoting evidence-based, positive approaches to equine behaviour and training. I provide consultations tailored to improve horse-human relationships by addressing behavioural issues using scientifically grounded methods. My goal is always to support horses in a way that enhances their natural behaviours, reduces stress, and promotes their well-being. Through this approach, I empower owners and handlers to build stronger, more ethical partnerships with their horses.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

The role of transcriptional and epigenetic regulation in red blood cell development.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Arno Alpi

Project Summary

Erythropoiesis is a tightly orchestrated multi-step process that produces mature red blood cells from haematopoietic stem cells and its dysregulation leads to a variety of blood disorders including anaemia and leukaemia. The timely coordination of transcriptional and epigenetic factors is essential for erythrocyte-specific gene expression programmes. My PhD project will focus on the role of transcriptional and epigenetic regulation in red blood cell development and underlying molecular mechanisms. Recent advances suggested that the CTLH E3 ubiquitin ligase complex is implicated in ubiquitin-proteasome mediated protein degradation during mammalian erythropoiesis. We hypothesize that CTLH E3 targets transcriptional/epigenetic factors for degradation thereby modulating the gene expression programme. We will reconstitute erythroid differentiation in vitro in combination with multi-omics approaches to study CTLH E3-modulated gene regulation and apply functional/molecular studies to investigate mechanisms of CTLH E3-mediated substrate degradation.

Personal Note

I’m from China and completed my bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology. Later, I came to the UK to study Biomedical Sciences for my master at the University of Edinburgh. After graduating, I worked as a research assistant in Dr Arno Alpi’s lab for a year, where I became even more interested in biological research. Now, I’m really excited to start my PhD journey. Outside of studies, I enjoy cooking, watching TV, and spending time with friends—whether it’s hanging out or exercising together.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Investigating the molecular mechanisms of pancreatic lipotoxicity.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Ahmad Al-Mrabeh

Project Summary

The pathogenesis of both type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) involves a decline in functional β-cell mass, which is essential for insulin secretion and glucose regulation. Historically, apoptosis was considered the primary cause of loss of β-cell function. However, it is now thought that ectopic fat deposition in the pancreas leads to a process known as 'transdifferentiation', in which mature β-cells lose their ability to secrete insulin and revert to a non-functional state.

The identity of these toxic lipids and the molecular mechanisms to which they cause cellular dysfunction is not yet understood. This project aims to combine high resolution molecular profiling tools such as single cell transcriptomics (snRNAseq), mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), and cellular studies to identify druggable targets to develop novel therapeutic targets to treat T2D.

Personal Note

I obtained a MSci in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry in 2025 from the University of Glasgow. During my degree, I worked as a researcher in the Institute of Molecular Bioscience (IMB) at the University of Queensland (2023-2024), and at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (2024). My research specialised in the biochemistry of proteins found in the venom of medically significant Cubozoa.

After my degree, I obtained a PhD position studying the molecular profile of lipids to understand the mechanisms of pancreas lipotoxicity in type 2 diabetes (T2D), under the co-supervision of Dr Ahmad Al-Mrabeh and Prof. David Clarke at the Centre for Cardiovascular Science. This project aims to combine high resolution molecular profiling tools such as single cell transcriptomics (snRNAseq), mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), and cellular studies to identify druggable targets to develop novel therapeutic targets to treat T2D.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Shining light on the function of ATP11B: RaPID access to probes for an understudied protein target.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Ewen Calder

Project Summary

This project is related to Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), which accounts for 45% of dementia. Cerebral small vessel disease alters the function of the endothelial cells lining the brain and subsequently leads to neuro degeneration.

A transgenic rat models has shown by depleting ATP11B, a lesser understood protein, there is a pathological, imaging and behavioural change in the phenotype similar to human SVD.

My project will use mRNA display to design a library of peptide probes that can elucidate the function of ATP11B.

The focus of the project is to understand this disfunction, and better understand the mechanism of and how to treat dementia.

Personal Note

I am from London, but have lived across the UK and in Okinawa.

I completed my MSc in Natural Sciences (Chemistry with Biochemistry) at the University of Bath. I completed a year in industry placement as a R&D scientist at Convatec, a medical device company. This cemented my interest in research, and I subsequently spent a summer working within the Cresswell group at the University of Bath, completing organic chemistry research into PROTAC design. My masters project was conducted in the Jenkins group, and focused on the design of novel anti fungal drug delivery systems. Last year I worked at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology as a research assistant within the Yokobayshi group. My work focused on bioengineering cell free solutions for DNA based sensors.

Outside of research I enjoy kayaking, climbing and martial arts. I love to travel and experience new places and cultures.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Investigating how cell size impacts proteome homoeostasis and cellular signalling.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Matthew Swaffer

Project Summary

Cell size sets the scale for organelle structures, surface transport and, most crucially, biosynthetic rates. Protein and mRNA amounts must scale with cell size to maintain constant concentrations, so coordination between cell size and cellular biosynthesis is essential.
Despite these recent breakthrough discoveries, the mechanisms for these size-dependent changes are not known. The project will investigate how growth and stress signalling pathways respond to changes in cell size.

Personal Note

Originally from Italy, I studied a BSc (Hons) in Cellular Biology at the University of Stirling. I, subsequently, moved to Edinburgh to pursue an MRes in the Swaffer Lab, investigating cell size and stress signalling. I am now excited to being a PhD in the Swaffer Lab. Beyond research, I am interested in entrepreneurship as a way to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and societal impact. In my free time, I like to be in the nature, dance, and eat a lot of pasta/pizza.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Investigating phosphoinositide acyl chain composition as a novel regulator of T cell signalling during ageing.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Joy Edwards-Hicks

Project Summary

T cells are part of the adaptive immune system and are important for killing infected and cancerous cells. In elderly individual's, T cell activation through the T cell receptor (TCR) and co-stimulatory receptors is hampered, which leads to downstream signal transduction being poor, defective metabolic reprogramming and ultimately a reduction in T cell function. Phosphoinositides (bioactive lipids) are important in downstream signalling of the TCR, and while the phosphorylation of their inositol headgroup has been widely found to regulate phosphoinositides, regulation by the acyl chain composition, which is dependent on cell metabolism, is an area of strong interest. Particularly as dysregulated metabolism occurs during ageing. Therefore, to address the decline in elderly immune function and, in particular, to address the decline in T cell response in elderly individual's, this project aims to investigate the acyl chain of phosphoinositides as a novel regulator of T cell signalling in humans. 

Personal Note

I was born and raised in Edinburgh, and I graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a BSc (Hons) degree in Pharmacology. During my undergraduate degree, I combined my pharmacological courses with immunological courses due to my strong interest in inflammatory research. I undertook an inflammatory-based honours project which investigated neutrophil functional responses to key inflammatory mediators. While I strongly enjoyed learning about the innate immune system, I also wished to learn more about the adaptive immune system, which has led me to this PhD.

In my spare time, I take part in an Inflammatory bowel disease patient public engagement group, where I try to bridge the gap between clinicians, researchers and patients. I have recently worked with other patient members of the group to create a solely patient written paper analysing the results of an IBD wellbeing survey. I also enjoy reading and attending music and theatre events.

University of Aberdeen

Project Title

Neural Plasticity and Self-Reference in the Ageing Brain.

Primary Supervisor

Professor Jie Sui

Project Summary

As we age, we experience healthy cognitive decline, including worse memory performance overall. Likewise, the stability of episodic memory is a key defining factor of life satisfaction in older age. However, the influence of underlying factors that define its performance, perspective, the self, and social connection remains vague.
Our self allows us to recall past events we had once experienced. Yet, this 'self' may be modulated by our mode of remembering, such as perspective, which further affects the self-reference of a memory, moderating the performance of cognitive abilities, particularly in ageing populations. Similarly, cognitive performance is affected by social connection, and social isolation is detrimental to well-being, further speeding memory decline as well.
This project examines how perspective-taking, its impacts on the strength of self-relevance, and social connectedness may all interrelate and potentially help moderate age-related memory decline through the use of naturalistic, virtual reality paradigms and electroencephalography techniques.

Personal Note

Hi! I'm from Poland and came here to Scotland to study, back in Covid times. I've always been interested in research and academia, jumping from topic to topic, until I fell in love with psychology! I love deciphering human behaviour and why we are the way we are, and now I can do this as in-depth as I want. Outside of reading papers (which I have a love-hate relationship with), I love fantasy books, like Wheel of Time, knitting - learning to make a sock right now, and game development (and playing all the games I can, of course!). I try to go to the cinema as often as I can, and I take every chance I get to explore the Highlands and the castles here.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Maintaining a healthy blood-retina barrier to prevent age-related vision loss.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Mihaela Crisan, Dr Chloe Stanton, Dr Pierre Bagnaninchi

Project Summary

The blood-retina barrier (BRB) is fundamental in regulating fluid and molecule exchange to and from the retina. Age-related damage to cells in this structure is known to compromise BRB function, leading to impaired retinal homeostasis and ultimately vision loss. During my project I will be building a co-culture cellular model that mimics retina-blood vessel communication in vitro. I will then use this system to identify the microenvironmental stressors, and disrupted intracellular pathways that impact retinal health and result in loss of BRB integrity during ageing.

Personal Note

I am originally from Budapest, Hungary but I was raised near London. After moving back to Hungary with my family, I completed my Biology BSc at the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest. During my studies, I worked on a project investigating DNA transposons, where I fell in love with cell culture work (they feel like my children). I then moved to Edinburgh to pursue a MscR in Biomedical Sciences, conducting research on neurodegeneration and later autism, using brain organoids. I will now be joining the Crisan lab for my PhD, where I'll be studying the blood-retina barrier. Outside of the lab, I enjoy reading, walking and travelling.

University of St Andrews

Project Title

Using machine learning to investigate how emotion drives human aggression.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Bobby May

Project Summary

My project aims to investigate how emotion drives aggression, and will capitalise on existing emotion and aggression research conducted by Professor David Donaldson, Dr Bobby May, and PhD student Annah McCurry from the University of St Andrews. To achieve this research objective, existing machine learning tools will be leveraged to develop a novel approach for predicting dynamic emotional shifts both intra-personally (within individuals) and inter-personally (between individuals) during and preceding aggressive behaviour in the lab. This novel model will integrate psychometric and physiological data alongside established emotion-detection tools to enhance prediction accuracy and provide deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying aggression. Furthermore, this research aims to identify key factors influencing the onset and intensity of aggressive behaviour, which will inform the development of a predictive model aimed at preventing or mitigating its negative consequences.

Personal Note

I am from the Gaeltacht of Ráth Chairn, Co. Meath, Ireland. I graduated with a BSc in Neuroscience from the University of Glasgow and an MSc in Neuroscience from Trinity College Dublin. My Master's thesis investigated the neurological basis of hate using fMRI data. I have previous work experience as a neuromuscular clinical research coordinator at the Stanford School of Medicine, and as an optometric demonstrator at the University of the Highlands and Islands. 

University of St Andrews

Project Title

Bateman's principles and human reproductive strategies: A biosocial approach.

Primary Supervisor

Prof Gillian Brown

Project Summary

My research aims investigates the applicability of Bateman’s Principles to human reproductive behaviour. Specifically, the project seeks to determine whether males exhibit greater variance in reproductive success compared to females. In addition, a cross-cultural approach will be employed to examine the extent to which sociocultural factors, such as gender equality, influence human reproductive strategies.

Personal Note

My academic background is in Zoology, with a particular focus on sexual selection and animal behaviour. I completed a Master of Research degree investigating sexual dimorphism in hippopotamuses and after my postgraduate studies, I worked as a secondary school science teacher. I am now eager to return to academic research, and I am particularly excited to extend my interests into the study of human behaviour.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Using museomics to understand extinctions and inform re-introductions of UK butterflies.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Konrad Lohse

Project Summary

This PhD project will generate and analyse population genomic data from butterfly species that have either gone extinct or are at risk of extinction in the UK. I will use a combination of historical and contemporary samples from the UK and continental Europe to address the following questions:

1) When and from which sources were UK populations of extinct or critically endangered butterfly species established?
2) How much gene flow from continental Europe have UK populations received in the past?
3) Do past UK populations of extinct or critically endangered butterflies show different deep population histories and/or an increased genetic load compared to species that have not experienced declines in the UK?
4) What are the most suitable source populations for potential re-introductions and genetic rescue of extinct or endangered butterfly species to the UK?

This is in partnership with Restore (www.restorenature.com), an ecological restoration and species reintroduction consultancy.

Personal Note

I have a broadly ecological background, with lots of field work experience on remote islands, and have always wanted to work in conservation.
I completed my undergraduate degree in Zoology at the University of Glasgow, where I became interested in conservation genetics, and worked as a Research Intern at University of Durham, where I worked with ancient DNA and bioinformatics. I became keen to further explore how genomics can be a vital tool to inform conservation measures. 
I am a very keen hiker, cyclist, and general lover of the outdoors, which makes Scotland an ideal place to live! Christian and member of the Iona Community.

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

Malaria and the Intestinal Immune Response.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Jason Mooney

Project Summary

An underappreciated aspect of malaria is its ability to create conditions that allow secondary pathogens to thrive. One such effect is through altering intestinal dynamics, which can enable colonisation by bacteria like Salmonella, increasing the risk of sepsis in endemic regions.

This project investigates how malaria causes intestinal inflammation and gut dysfunction using a mouse model. We hope to characterise the intestinal immune response, focusing on the cellular influx driving inflammation. We then will use in vitro and organoid models to explore the pathological consequences of malaria-induced gastroenteritis, including effects on microbiome composition, intestinal crypt microarchitecture, and barrier function.

By understanding these mechanisms, we aim to translate our findings to humans, paving the way for interventions that improve outcomes not only in malaria but also in other intestinal inflammatory conditions

Personal Note

Hi! I’m originally from North Wales, with a mix of Polish and Kiwi (New Zealand) heritage. I recently graduated in Immunology from the University of Edinburgh. During the summer of my third year, I completed a placement with the Wellcome Trust Cell Biology Summer Internship Programme, investigating how components of cellular division influence neuronal development. My bioinformatics undergraduate dissertation focused on the diversity of PfEMP1, a key malarial virulence protein. These experiences sparked my fascination with cellular dynamics in infection and host-pathogen interactions, and I’m thrilled to continue my academic journey here in Edinburgh, working on a project that is a perfect combination of my passions.

Outside the lab, I enjoy bouldering, hiking, and going to the gym, and I often unwind by playing videogames. I also work occasionally on the weekends as a Manager at the Students’ Association in Potterrow, helping enhance the student experience - so if you’re around, don’t hesitate to pop in and say hi!

University of Aberdeen

Project Title

Facilitating long-term retrieval of stressful and non-stressful repeated events: Mnemonics and interviewing interventions.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Eva Rubínová

Project Summary

My project aims to assess the impact of stress and the effectiveness of interviewing interventions in facilitating accurate retrieval of instances of repeated events—similar events that occur regularly over time—from long-term memory. Recalling a specific experience is often difficult and can lead to memory errors like misattributions, inconsistencies and decreased recall accuracy. Some repeated events are stressful (e.g., instances of repeated offending like domestic abuse), and we know little about the impact of stress on memory for repeated events. Research examining the impact of stress on memory has frequently used methods that have limited ecological validity, and that manipulated stress levels of the subject rather than examined how stressful scenarios are remembered. My project uses emotionally negative and neutral scenarios and measures stress levels using physiological and self-report measures. Additionally, we examine new theory-informed methods (e.g., based on the context maintenance and retrieval model) in repeated event contexts. 

Personal Note

I was born and raised in Ireland and moved to Scotland to pursue a BSc in Psychology. During my time there, I volunteered with Victim Support Scotland, supporting witnesses at court. I was interested in researching this area and reached out to my (now) supervisor for lab experience. Later on, we worked on a research project examining the impact of emotionally negative experiences on long-term memory and the effectiveness of interviewing interventions, which I also focused on for my bachelor thesis. During my final year, we talked about putting a project together for the EASTBIO which aims to assess the impact of stress in more depth. In my free time, I love to read books of just about any genre (bar horror!), help out in my church and travel when I can. I started figure skating about three years ago and I thoroughly love the sport! 

University of Edinburgh

Project Title

 How do circadian rhythms in potassium and magnesium levels affect cell biology? 

Primary Supervisor

Prof Gerben van Ooijen

Project Summary

This project firstly aims to generate novel reporter proteins targeted to multiple subcellular localisations to map the spatiotemporal dynamics of ion concentrations. We will also employ time series of cell fractionations to verify the elemental composition of organelles. Once these tools are established, they will be employed to probe the functional consequences of ion rhythms for cellular metabolism. The project will initially focus on model cells from a marine alga, but successful tools would be tested in other eukaryotic cell types. Studying how circadian ion fluxes affect cell biology is essential to inform future translational studies into how nutrition affects the body clock.

Personal Note

Hi, I'm Hanhan from China. I graduated from Beijing Normal University with both a BSc and an MSc, spending seven years focused on cell signalling—especially on revealing and manipulating its disease-relevant mechanisms with high spatiotemporal precision. I engineered a palette of genetically encoded calcium indicators that report Ca²⁺ dynamics in distinct sub-cellular compartments, and used them to dissect how calcium signalling is regulated. Building on these insights, I designed and validated optogenetic/chemogenetic tools to modulate signalling pathways on demand.Out of the lab, I'm a big fan of musicals and enjoy traveling with my families and friends.

University of Aberdeen

Project Title

From bees to crops and back again: coupling pollinators and land use dynamics in a changing world.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Greta Bocedi

Project Summary

I will be coupling the models Range Shifter and CRAFTY to analyse bumblebee population dynamics  under different climate and land use change dynamics. With these analyses we hope to understand how to best protect bumblebee species and other important pollinator groups within our changing planet. 

Personal Note

I have just completed an MRes at the University of York where I developed a new method to quantify novel ecosystems. In my spare time I enjoy reading books and going for walks, I am excited to explore the beautiful natural landscapes Scotland has to offer. 

University of Aberdeen

Project Title

Molecular basis of gill function in Atlantic salmon: from physiology to health.

Primary Supervisor

Prof. Sam Martin

Project Summary

My project will work in conjunction with the extensive research being conducted at the Scottish Fish Immunology Research Centre to explore molecular and genetic biomarkers of gill health in farmed Atlantic salmon. This project aims to identify key indicators of gill pathophysiological responses to infection and inflammation, such as crucial genes, histopathological markers, and proteins. The goal of characterising the molecular landscape of the salmon's gill response to pathology is to better identify signs of gill morbidity in farmed salmon on-site, helping to reduce salmon mortality and improve standards within the growing aquaculture industry.

Personal Note

Originally from Texas, I relocated to Scotland to pursue my joint Bachelors-Masters MSci in Biological Sciences at the University of Aberdeen, where I specialised primarily in marine and aquatic sciences. For several years I conducted research on the population genomics of the critically endangered flapper skate to better inform UK marine conservation efforts. Throughout my life I have always been fascinated by fish, and I aim to apply my fascination with fish biology to my genetic and molecular exploration of salmon gills. Since moving to Scotland, I have also collaborated with the Aberdeen City Council and local nature organisations to generate databases and reports of local greenspace use and pollinator biodiversity. When I'm not in the lab or in the office, you can find me singing in local choirs, exploring castles and cemeteries, cooking an elaborate meal, or generally wandering around Scotland appreciating its rich history! 

University of Dundee/James Hutton Institute

Project Title

Endophytes for sustainable barley production: harnessing microbes for improved pest, pathogen and environmental stress tolerance.

Primary Supervisor

Dr. Lorena Rangel

Project Summary

The widespread use of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilisers, together with increasing biotic and abiotic stresses driven by climate change, are contentious and important factors facing modern agriculture. However, the crops and those managing them are not alone in this struggle. A consortium of diverse microorganisms that rely on the plants survival are equally invested in their health. One such are group are fungal endophytes that grow within plant tissue and range from mildly pathogenic to mutualistic organisms. Since the fungi’s survival is tied to that of the host, some have evolved mechanisms to improve plant growth and promote tolerance to environmental stressors. Our research aims to isolate endophytes from wild barley and native grasses in the United Kingdom, elucidate the mechanisms underlying their plant growth promoting effects, and explore their potential towards enhancing the resilience and resistance of cultivated barley.

Personal Note

I am a Swedish/American that has grown up in both countries. I moved to Scotland to do my bachelors in biochemistry at the University of Glasgow. In Glasgow I started the University of Glasgow Mycology Society from a previous interest in the kingdom, as well as a frustration in the lack of research on the topic in Scotland. While running the society I became infatuated with micro-fungi, it was through this that I decided I wanted to work with plant-fungal interactions. I briefly interned at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge with Professor Sebastian Schornack working with Phytophthora, and then Dr. David Cooke at the James Hutton Institute working on the Fight Against Blight. In my free time I continue to identify fungi and upload them to iNaturalist, as well as whittle, and blacksmith.

University of Dundee

Project Title

Characterising plant genes shaping microbiota composition at the root-soil interface.

Primary Supervisor

Dr Davide Bulgarelli

Project Summary

This project aims at gaining novel insights into the genetic relationships between plants and microbial communities populating the interface between roots and soil, collectively referred to as the rhizosphere microbiota. Like the microbiota populating the digestive tract of vertebrates, the rhizosphere microbiota can contribute to the growth, development and health of its host plant. Intriguingly, plants exert a control on the composition and function of these microbial communities. Consequently, plant genes shaping microbiota composition at the root-soil interface are at centre-stage in the quest to develop sustainable crops. We previously identified a locus in the genome of the staple crop barley representing a paradigm for how plants shape rhizosphere microbes. This project will build on this breakthrough discovery to further resolve the genetic basis of host-microbiota interactions in plants.

Personal Note

Hi I'm Aman and I'm from Pakistan. I've been in the UK for ~7 years now. I completed my undergraduate at the University of Dundee in 2021, then from 2021 to 2025 I've worked at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and at Illumina Laboratory Services. I'm quite passionate about innovating in academia by translating across industrial work practices and cannot wait to apply what I've learned and experienced to my PhD. In my spare time, I like to boulder, travel, and scuba dive :)

Scotland's Rural College

Project Title

Are grasslands as important for soil carbon as we think?

Primary Supervisor

Professor Christine Watson

Project Summary

Temporary and permanent grasslands cover >70% of UK agricultural land and provide a variety of ecosystem services including provision of feed for ruminants who convert grass into nutrient rich human food. Across the UK, grassland contributes significantly to the total climate change mitigation of agriculture and contain a huge reservoir of soil carbon. The inclusion of temporary leys within arable systems promoting crop/livestock integration is a regenerative approach which is gaining popularity among farmers, food production companies and policy makers. However, little is known about the dynamics of soil carbon pools as leys develop and mature or how the pools within short-term leys reflect those in long-term grassland. Nitrogen is also a key part of the story as it controls the capacity of the soil to store carbon.

The overall aim of the project is to understand the dynamics of soil carbon (C) and nitrogen pools in grasslands as they mature. We will utilize long-term experiments to investigate carbon and nitrogen pools in leys of different ages as they mature and address release of carbon when those leys are subsequently cultivated for arable production. In a contemporary twist we will compare carbon cycling in ley/arable systems producing livestock with vegan production systems which are not dependent on grassland utilized by livestock.

Personal Note

I am Nasir Mehmood Khan, born and raised in Pakistan. I have an optimistic, conscientious and energetic personality and always strive to achieve great things. I have experience of working in different research environments from field and greenhouse experiments to laboratory work along with well-developed skills in data interpretation and analysis. I am particularly interested in soil-plant-microbiome interactions, nutrient dynamics, especially nitrogen and carbon cycling and to optimize crop production and physiology with regenerative approaches. I am also fascinated about the idea of using advance research techniques like crop modeling for better understanding of plant and soil systems.
I have been also involved in various curricular activities such as remained president of Arid Dramatic Club and general secretary of Arid Patriotic Society during my university period. I enjoy working with groups of different thoughts and perspectives and love playing cricket, badminton and traveling to new destinations to explore the beauty of world. As a Teaching Assistant during my master’s program, I guided undergraduates in practical work, enhanced my learning experience and communication skills

University of Dundee

Project Title

Targeting fungal E3 ligases with small-molecule ligands for degrader development.

Primary Supervisor

Professor Alessio Ciulli

Project Summary

Identifying plant E3 ligases and developing small-molecule ligands for targeted protein degradation in an agricultural setting.

Personal Note

I was born in Germany and grew up on the Shetland Islands in the north of Scotland. I carried out my undergraduate degree at the University of Dundee in biological chemistry and drug discovery, leading me to do an M(Res) in degrader development in plants at the University of Dundee, and now my PhD in the same field and lab. I am very involved in the University of Dundee’s Olympic weightlifting club in my free time.

University of Stirling

Project Title

Understanding the role of genetics and microbial interactions on gill health.

Primary Supervisor

Dr. Benjamin Clokie

Project Summary

Geared towards improving industry sustainability, I'm setting out to understand the underlying mechanisms behind Complex Gill Disease resistance in farmed Atlantic Salmon.

In partnership with Benchmark Genetics and using cutting-edge molecular techniques, this project aims to identify clear patterns of pathology in relation to the genetic backgrounds of fish. I aim to assess this in conjunction with gill physiology and broader environmental factors.

This research addresses some fundamental questions concerning gill health, which, if answered, would be a crucial step towards overcoming relevant and pressing challenges faced by the aquaculture industry.

Personal Note

From my teenage years, I developed a strong interest in the relationship between innovation and sustainability - how they inform and shape each other, particularly in the context of natural science. This, alongside my deep love for the sea (and seafood), ultimately guided my choices in higher education. I currently hold a BSc(Hons) in Marine and Freshwater Biology and an MSc in Sustainable Aquaculture.

In further pursuit of science, I worked as a research technician in a molecular laboratory at a university. Being immersed in such an environment has solidified my love for academia, and now I'm ready to jump back into the creative side of research while continuing to refine my laboratory-based skill set.

Science aside, my interests lie in art, photography, literature and religion. I also have a deep enthusiasm for travel and culture, and hope to visit my 28th country within the next year!

University of Stirling

Project Title

One for all: ecosystem services trade-offs in inland aquaculture agroecosystems

Primary Supervisor

Dr. Noel Juvigny-Khenafou

Project Summary

Aquaculture is rapidly expanding and increasingly integrated in the landscape – while much of the attention is on mariculture, most of the current production worldwide is performed in artificial coastal brackish and inland systems. Aquaculture therefore makes use of arable land and freshwater resources in some of the most productive and diverse areas of the world. Further, freshwater and brackish environments have been at the centre of ongoing debates due to their economic and environmental value. Overall, aquaculture participates in the modification of the landscape and the stability of ecosystems via intensive and/or extensive practices.

Although there is a body of research to select production sites, the focus is on optimisation and resilience to environmental fluctuations rather than understanding the changes in landscape ecological processes over time. Polyculture and other integrated systems are ancient practices that aim to better integrate aquaculture in the environment while minimising impacts, however the focus is at the farm level. Further, while aquaculture planning has a legislative guidance, the focus on biodiversity and landscape connectivity is minor and the cost-benefits not clear for practitioners.

This PhD will use metaecosystem theory to identify the ecosystem services trade-offs of sustainable aquaculture associated with inland practices. Notably, it will investigate the landscape processes of stability and resilience to climate change in terms of production, biodiversity and spread of disease and invasive species using computer models and simulations. Specifically, it will seek to
identify optimal landscape designs to inform decision makers to better integrate aquaculture to face modern environmental and societal challenges.

Personal Note

I began my studies at Trinity College Dublin with an undergraduate degree in Environmental Sciences. After completing my thesis on Multiple Stressor Response Models, I worked as a research assistant in the TCD Zoology department, furthering my work on freshwater stressors and data analysis. I moved to London in 2023 to study Environmental Data Science and Machine Learning at Imperial College London with a focus on LLMs for freshwater ecology. After a year of working as a researcher at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, I am excited to return to the world of science and experiments.

In my spare time I enjoy grabbing a coffee, reading a book and chatting to whoever will respond!

Scotland's Rural College

Project Title

Insect Communities: Measuring Nutritional Robustness Across Agricultural Landscapes

Primary Supervisor

Dr. Rob Graham