Supervisors:  Dr António Galvão 

Department: Comparative Biomedical Sciences  

Project Detail

This exciting research program investigates how maternal obesity disrupts critical processes in placental development, with  particular focus on trophoblast cell lineage commitment following embryo implantation. Maternal obesity has been linked to compromised placental function, posing significant risks to both mother and fetus. The placenta represents the interface between mother and fetus, and facilitates nutrient exchange, hormone production, and vascular remodelling—key functions for the development of the conceptus and a successful pregnancy.

Recent studies suggest that obesity in mice adversely impacts the labyrinth zone (LZ) of the placenta, where the exchange of nutrients occurs, potentially through compromised  differentiation of specialised trophoblast cells. This project aims to characterise the effects of diet induced obesity on the cellular composition of LZ from mouse placentas collected at embryonic day (E) 18.5. We will profile the prevalence of syncytiotrophoblast cells (SynT-I and SynT-II) in the LZ, shedding light into the mechanisms disrupting placental function in obese mothers.

Using immunofluorescence microscopy (IF) and real-time qPCR and analysis of RNAseq dataset from mouse placentas, we will quantify the prevalence of SynT-I and SynT-II cell populations and confirm associated changes in  gene expression, providing a comprehensive profile of trophoblast cell population. As part of the research programme, you’ll receive exceptional training at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), including essential knowledge on placental morphology and function, reproductive pathology linked to obesity, and the role of trophoblasts in maternal-fetal interactions. Hands-on experience with advanced techniques, including IF staining, real-time qPCR, RNAseq data analysis, in vitro stem cell work,  and statistical analysis using GraphPad Prism, will ensure you develop a robust technical skill set. You’ll also benefit from close supervision by Dr. Antonio Galvao and daily support and from PhD student and other members of the lab.

This research offers a unique opportunity to make meaningful contributions to a growing body of knowledge. With results that may lead to peer-reviewed publications (e.g., Walewska et al., 2025), your work will help shape our understanding of the factors and molecular mechanisms contributing to the formation of the placenta in obese mothers. Join us on this exciting journey to advance our understanding of infertility in obese mothers!

References: 

1) Walewska E, Hamada Z, Perez-Garcia V, Galvão A, Altered Uterine Leptin Signalling Underpins the Pathogenesis of Impaired Decidualisation in Obese Mothers, 2025; Reproduction  169, e240319

2) Walewska E, K Makowczenko, Witek K, Molcan T, Laniecka E, Alvarez-Sanchez A, Kelsey G, Perez-Garcia V, Galvão A, Fetal growth restriction and placental defects in obese mice are associated with impaired decidualisation: the role of increased leptin signalling modulators SOCS3 and PTPN2, Cell. Mol. Life Sci. 81, 329  

Requirements

Essential

Must meet our standard MRes entry requirements not limited to veterinary background, BSc qualification also accepted

Desirable

A strong passion for and curiosity about fundamental scientific research This can be taken full-time (12months FTE) project commencing in October 2025, based at RVC's Camden campus. 

Funding

Partially funded: e.g. the lab will be covering the project costs, with the MRes student expected to meet the course fees and their living expenses. International applicants are welcome to apply but must be able to fund the difference between "Home" and "Overseas" tuition fees. Please note that EU/EEA and Swiss national students may no longer be eligible for the “Home” rate of tuition fees, dependent on personal circumstances (including immigration status and residence history in the UK) and UK government rules which are currently being developed. For up-to-date information on fees for EU/EEA and Swiss national students following Brexit please see our fees and funding page.

How to apply

Deadline:  08/05/2026

For more information on the application process and English Language requirements see How to Apply.

Interviews will take place remotely (Teams, Zoom etc) within 4 weeks of the closing date.We welcome informal enquiries - these should be directed to agalvao@rvc.ac.uk