Molecular basis of hearing in Insects

The newly-founded Warren lab is after an ambitious and resilient PhD student to work on hearing in the desert locust. You will receive comprehensive hands-on training in state-of-the-art genetic techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9, and electrophysiological methodology including recently pioneered intracellular patch-clamp recordings (Warren and Matheson, 2018). Working closely with Dr Warren, you will, over three years, identify the elusive sound-activated ion channel, a question of timely significance for the field of hearing research because it remains unidentified in any animal ear.

As well as being part of young and up-and-coming aspiring lab you will attend the famous Plymouth ‘Microelectrode techniques for Cell Physiology Course’ and multiple international meetings to train and present your findings in this exciting field. You will also take advantage of the Career Development Programme and other tailored training within the College of Life Sciences at Leicester.
The ideal candidate will have experience of basic genetic techniques, perhaps with a master’s degree. Overarching qualities, that are more important than the candidate’s background, are resilience, motivation to learn new techniques and determination. With Dr Warren’s training and guidance the student will be expected to publish high quality research, impact current understanding in the field and springboard into an exciting future career.

Entry requirements
Applicants are required to hold/or expect to obtain a Bachelor Degree 2:1 or better in a Biology-related subject, preferably with a genetics and molecular biology background. Applicants with a Masters/MPhil degree in genetic techniques or researchers with CRISPR-Cas9 experience would be highly sought after. The University of Leicester English language requirements apply where applicable.

How to apply
You should submit your application using our online application system: https://www2.le.ac.uk/research-degrees/phd/applyphd
Apply for Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour Research.

In the funding section of the application please indicate you wish to be considered for Dr Warren’s Royal Society Fellowship Studentship

In the proposal section please provide the name of the supervisor and project title.
You should include your CV, a personal statement giving details of why you should be considered for this studentship, copies of your degree transcripts and certificates if available and the contact details of two academic referees or academic reference letters, including one related to practical work in the lab.

Project / Funding Enquiries: Ben Warren [Email Address Removed]
Application enquiries to [Email Address Removed]