Deficits in glutamatergic signalling in cortex have been hypothesized to play a central role in schizophrenia pathogenesis. We have previously characterized deficits in firing activity in putative pyramidal neurons from prefrontal cortex in a rat translational model of schizophrenia. However, deficits in single neuron activation and their mechanisms have not been characterized in brains from schizophrenic patients. In this project, we will harness recent advances in tissue- and cell-type specific differentiation of patient induced pluripotent stem cells to address this. You will use this cutting-edge model system to investigate changes in synaptic signalling and intrinsic neuronal excitability. You will also model environmental insults thought to contribute to schizophrenia such as immune and metabolic dysregulation as well as catecholamine activation.
The supervisory team includes experts in neuronal physiology and stem cell biology and will provide access to state-of-the art calcium imaging and in-vitro neurophysiology facilities. You will develop advanced research skills in the areas of cell engineering and cell physiology and imaging which UKRI identify as high-priority skills for medical research and industry employers. With its focus on disease biomarkers and physiology, the research plan aligns with the research strategy of the University of Leicester College of Life Sciences.
Entry requirements:
Please see for relevant text: https://more.bham.ac.uk/mrc-impact/phd-opportunities/
Academic requirement
Minimum qualifications and experience to undertake a research degree are detailed in the QAA UK Quality for Higher Education. For some subject areas, there is also an expectation that an individual will have undertaken a Masters qualification before beginning a doctoral programme. Candidates should possess the relevant qualifications and/or experience to demonstrate a capability to undertake a doctorate, which will be assessed during the recruitment process. More details can be found on the MRC website (https://mrc.ukri.org/skills-careers/studentships/studentship-guidance/student-eligibility-requirements/).
Residency requirements
These studentships are available to UK nationals, EU nationals and international applicants. Full details on eligibility, including residence requirements can be found on the Full Eligibility Criteria (https://more.bham.ac.uk/mrc-impact/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2020/11/Full-Eligibility-Criteria.pdf) or on the UKRI website (https://www.ukri.org/our-work/developing-people-and-skills/find-studentships-and-doctoral-training/get-a-studentship-to-fund-your-doctorate/).
To apply https://more.bham.ac.uk/mrc-impact/phd-opportunities/
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