Circadian Rhythms and Ageing

About the Project

We are pleased to offer the opportunity for a self-funded PhD student to join our research team within the School of Pharmacy, University of Kent. The research aims of this project are to explore the impact of Aging on the mammalian circadian clock.

The environmental day/night cycle is an essential component of life; where throughout the evolutionary chain, organisms have used this signal as a timing cue to which they regulate/ synchronise their 24 hour (circadian) biological activity. Aging of the physiological components that govern and maintain circadian rhythms in mammals result in disruption to the clock leading to problems in sleep, cognition and social function. This studentship will focus on unravelling the mechanism by which ageing affects the mammalian circadian clock. The project will utilise state-of-the-art in vivo and in vitro techniques, ranging from behavioural experimentation through to molecular methodologies.

Applicants should hold a minimum upper-second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject discipline such as neuroscience, physiology, pharmacology, or any other life science-related subject area. Prior experience in either circadian biology would be an advantage, but not essential.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate subject and a Masters (at Merit or above) in Pharmaceutical Science or closely related subject.

How to apply

Informal enquires should be made to Dr. Gurprit Lall (G.Lall@kent.ac.uk; Tel: +44 (0)1634 202964) or Dr. Aiste Steponenaite (A.Steponenaite@kent.ac.uk). Applications should be in the form of a full C.V. and a covering letter either emailed or sent to Dr. Gurprit Lall. Medway School of Pharmacy, University of Kent, Anson Building, Central Avenue, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB.