The importance of circadian rhythms in our physiology and behaviour, such as our sleep-wake cycle, feeding schedule, hormone production, etc, to maintain health and wellbeing is well established. In mammals, these rhythms are generated and coordinated by a central clock within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), where daily changes in gene expression and neuronal excitability critically synchronise animal physiology and behaviour with the prevailing light-dark cycle.
Some fundamental features of circadian rhythms are conserved amongst species, whether they are night (nocturnal – like most rodents) or day (diurnal – like humans) active. However, most of what we know about the neurobiology of circadian clocks comes from studies on a small number of nocturnal rodent species. So, the all-important question of to which extent neuronal and glial timekeeping mechanisms in diurnal species are similar/differ from nocturnal species remains largely unknown.
This PhD programme will allow a successful applicant to investigate neuronal mechanisms underlying diurnality using a powerful day-active animal model and a broad range of state-of-the-art techniques in neuroscience, including imaging, in vivo and in vitro electrophysiology, in combination with transcriptome analysis.
This work will advance our understanding on brain circuit organization and function while providing key knowledge when translating finding to humans.
Entry Requirements
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 previous experience in circadian biology or with an interest in electrophysiology and in vivo experiments are encouraged to apply.
Applicants interested in this project should make direct contact with the Primary Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible.
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.
Incomplete applications will not be considered and withdrawn.
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/”
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