Brain on “FIRE” – investigating the role of microglia in epilepsy

Immune cells are increasingly recognised as significant contributors to developing epilepsy and are implicated in up to 40% of the most devastating epilepsy syndromes¹. Drugs that target the immune system can be beneficial in some of these patients with severe and difficult-to-treat epilepsy, however, they are not specific and affect the whole immune system leading to harmful side-effects². Microglia, the resident immune cells in the brain, are primarily involved in the first and fast immune and inflammatory responses in the brain (i.e., the innate immune response). They are integral to maintaining brain function by removal of dying and non-functional neurons, synaptic pruning, and support of synaptogenesis^3-5. Recent evidence points to microglia having critical roles in modulating neuronal activity⁶. Given their essential set of roles and responsibilities in the brain, it is not surprising that microglial dysfunction has been strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases including epilepsy⁷ In this PhD project we will generate disease models of difficult-to-treat epilepsy that genetically lack microglia and assess the impact on underlying pathology, immunology, brain cell networks and signalling (electrophysiology). This work will build on existing work within the field of epilepsy in our laboratories.^8,9

The successful candidate will benefit from learning established techniques of in vivo and in vitro electrophysiology, and immunohistochemistry to create the novel models proposed in this study. Establishing the role of microglia in the disruption of the normal crosstalk between the immune system and the brain in epileptogenesis will provide a specific therapeutic strategy that would treat and even prevent epilepsy, one of the most common neurological disorders. This ambitious and novel project will ideally suit a student with knowledge and experience of cell biology, neuroscience, genetic and disease laboratory models. Prior use of Matlab or other relevant coding experience would be of benefit for electrophysiological analysis.

Submitting an application

As part of the application, you will need to supply:

• A copy of your current CV
• Copies of your academic qualifications for your Bachelor degree, and Masters degree (if studied); this should include both certificates and transcripts, and must be translated in to English
• A research proposal statement*
• Two academic references
• Proof of your English Language proficiency

Details of how to submit your application can be found here. 

*The application must be accompanied by a “research proposal” statement. An original proposal is not required as the initial scope of the project has been defined, candidates should take this opportunity to detail how their knowledge and experience will benefit the project and should also be accompanied by a brief review of relevant research literature.

Please include the supervisor’s name and project title in your Personal Statement.

If you require further information about the application process please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [Email Address Removed].