Overview
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a common form of dementia caused by the abnormal folding and aggregation of the synaptic protein alpha-synuclein. DLB symptoms include cognitive fluctuations and memory impairments, but how abnormal alpha-synuclein causes these changes is still unclear. Recent evidence suggests that early neuroinflammation, changes in mitochondrial function and increased neuronal excitability may all be implicated in early stages. This PhD project, funded by the Alzheimer’s Society, has two main objectives. Firstly, assess alpha-synuclein transgenic mice for changes in neurons, glial cells and network activity. Secondly, validate the use of the organotypic human and mouse culture system to investigate the links between neuronal excitability, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and alpha-synuclein. Ultimately, we will have assessed the validity of these different model systems to test novel therapeutic agents for preventing neurodegeneration.
Overall, this novel and exciting project will provide an excellent opportunity for the student to develop a range of skills including tissue culture, molecular biology, immunohistochemistry and electrophysiology. The student will be part of a vibrant research environment working along a diverse group of students and research fellows. The student will have access to a wide range of seminars and skills development courses and will be encouraged to become involved with public engagement events.
Number Of Awards
1
Award Duration
3 years
Application Closing Date
27 May 2022
Sponsor
Alzheimer’s Society
Supervisors
Dr Fiona LeBeau , Dr Gavin Clowry and Dr Amy Reeve.
Eligibility Criteria
You must have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent, in a subject relating to neuroscience including biochemistry and biological sciences. Further qualification such as an MRes is advantageous but not essential.
This award is available to home and international applicants. Successful international candidates will be required to make up the difference between the home fees and international fees.
Successful EU applicants will be considered for the Vice-Chancellor’s EU Research Scholarship .
English Language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall, with 5.5 or more in each sub-skill.
How To Apply
You must apply through the University’s online postgraduate application system. To do this please ‘Create a new account ’.
Only mandatory fields need to be completed. However, you will need to include the following information:
- insert the programme code 8420Fin the programme of study section
- select ‘PhD Biosciences (FT)as the programme of study
- insert the studentship code BI052in the studentship/partnership reference field
- attach a covering letter and CV. The covering letter must state the title of the studentship, quote the studentship reference code BI052and state how your interests and experience relate to the project
- attach degree transcripts and certificates and, if English is not your first language, a copy of your English language qualifications.
Contact Details
Dr Fiona LeBeau , Biosciences Institute – [email protected]
Dr Gavin Clowry, Biosciences Institute – [email protected]
Dr Amy Reeve, Translational and Clinical Sciences Institute – [email protected]
Apply:
https://www.ncl.ac.uk/postgraduate/fees-funding/search-funding/?code=bi052
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