The University of Bath is inviting applications for the following PhD project commencing in October 2023.
Supervisory Team:
Overview of the Research:
An important component of addiction behaviour is the link between substance abuse and stress. The paraventricular thalamus (PVT) has recently been suggested as a brain region that integrates reward-related and stress-related information [1, 2]. Given the significance of stress related memory and motivated behaviours in addiction, depression and anxiety, the PVT may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of these conditions [3].
Key neurotransmitters in reward and stress are the opioid peptides such as endorphins, enkephalins and dynorphin. These modulate brain activity by acting on opioid receptors, of which there are 3 types: delta, mu and kappa. Mu opioid receptors (MOPr) and kappa opioid receptors (KOPr) are generally expressed on different neuronal populations as they essentially have opposing functions: activation of MOPr induces euphoria and elevated mood while activation of KOPr has the opposite effect (dysphoria, low mood).
It is important to understand how stress-induced release of endogenous opioid neuropeptides contributes to the balance of rewarding and dysphoric effects in addiction behaviours. In this project we will investigate the role of MOPr and KOPr signalling in the PVT. We will use brain slice electrophysiological recordings, neuronal tracing techniques and chemogenetic tools to dissect the function of these opioid receptors in the PVT. Additionally we will use pharmacological tools to manipulate opioid receptors and study motivated behaviours in rodents.
The student will receive training in all these techniques, working as part of a vibrant group of neuropharmacology researchers.
This transdisciplinary project study will provide fundamental information about the role of the PVT in stress and reward. The findings have the potential to lead to the design of novel treatments for stress- and addiction-related disorders, as well as safer opioid analgesics.
Project keywords: Addiction, Neuroscience, Electrophysiology, Opioid, Receptors, Stress, Brain, Pharmacology, Drugs, Neuropharmacology, Psychopharmacology, Reward.
Candidate Requirements:
Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or good Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.
Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.
Enquiries and Applications:
Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be directed to Dr Chris Bailey on email address [Email Address Removed].
Formal applications should be submitted via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Pharmacy & Pharmacology prior to the closing date of this advert.
More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.
Note: Applications may close earlier than the advertised deadline if a suitable candidate is found. We therefore recommend that you contact the lead supervisor prior to applying and submit your formal application as early as possible.
Funding Eligibility:
To be eligible for funding, you must qualify as a Home student. The eligibility criteria for Home fee status are detailed and too complex to be summarised here in full; however, as a general guide, the following applicants will normally qualify subject to meeting residency requirements: UK and Irish nationals (living in the UK or EEA/Switzerland), those with Indefinite Leave to Remain and EU nationals with pre-settled or settled status in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Additional information may be found on our fee status guidance webpage, on the GOV.UK website and on the UKCISA website.
Exceptional Overseas students (e.g. with a UK Master’s Distinction or international equivalent and relevant research experience), who are interested in this project, should contact the lead supervisor in the first instance to discuss the possibility of applying for supplementary funding.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:
We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.
Continue with Facebook
