This project is part of ongoing work aimed at advancing our basic understanding of neuronal cell biology with a focus on studying neuronal cargo trafficking during ageing and neurodegeneration. The aim of the project is to study how manipulating mitochondrial dynamics and functionality impacts on neuronal health.
The student will initially focus on characterising the associations that the mitochondria establish with other cellular organelles in the neurons of Drosophila melanogaster and how these structures are affected by ageing in control animals and in animal models of neurodegeneration. The project builds on an exciting collaboration between the laboratory of Dr Alessio Vagnoni (Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, KCL) and the laboratory of Dr Tito Calì (University of Padova, Italy). The successful applicant will be able to use innovative methods to study intracellular transport by coupling powerful genetic tools in Drosophila and advanced methodology for imaging of live neurons.
The post represents a unique opportunity to join a dynamic research group and receive extensive training in Drosophila genetics, advanced microscopy, Drosophila and mammalian cell culture, biochemistry, molecular biology, data analysis. The Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience is located within the Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, which has excellent laboratories and access to cutting-edge equipment and core facilities, including start-of-the-art microscopy equipment in the Nikon Imaging Centre.
The position is suitable for a highly motivated, hard-working, positive and collaborative individual who has the ambition to contribute to the scientific progress in the field of neuronal cell biology.
Fully funded for 4 years:
Please note: applicants that do not qualify for Home tuition fees can still apply for the studentship although they need to be able to self-fund the shortfall (approximately £20,000/year, see also: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study-legacy/postgraduate/research-courses/basic-and-clinical-neuroscience-mdres-mphil-phd) to cover international tuition fees.
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