Mechanisms underlying the effects of light and visual stimuli on mood

 Light is not only important for vision, light responsiveness extends to fundamental aspects of mood, cognition, and performance. This has direct implications for human health and well-being, especially since one of the most striking changes we are experiencing in modern life is how much we are exposed to artificial light. People in developed countries now spend >90% of their time indoors exposed to artificial lighting of various qualities. Furthermore, with new technologies booming, adults spend >10h and children >4h a day in front of screens of numerous devices (TVs, phones, computers, etc.). Even more so, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have witnessed how screen-time has increased in both adults and children. Conversely, light can be used as an effective and non-invasive therapeutic option with little to no side effects, to improve sleep, mood, and general well-being. Light therapy is the treatment of choice for seasonal affective disorder and is emerging as a treatment for many other psychiatric disorders. Despite this, the biological mechanisms involved in these light-induced effects on mood are still poorly understood.

We do not know:

 i) which visual features affect our mood and how,

ii) what brain centres and neuronal networks are involved in these phenomena.

Without knowing this, we cannot successfully control these systems and their positive and negative effects. Therefore, it remains unclear how best to adjust artificial lighting, visual displays, and therapeutic approaches to maximise health and wellbeing.

This PhD programme will allow a successful applicant to investigate the biological mechanisms underlying the effects of light and visual stimuli on mood and start answering these crucial questions and make a step change in the field of light and mood.

1.     Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area / subject. Candidates with experience in working in a wet laboratory or with an interest in neuroscience of non-visual responses are encouraged to apply. 

2.     For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the PhD title.

3.     For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk

Eligibility

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline. 

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application. 

How to Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the appropriate subject title.

For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk

Your application form must be accompanied by a number of supporting documents by the advertised deadlines. Without all the required documents submitted at the time of application, your application will not be processed and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team fbmh.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/