The Dementia Research Institute (DRI) at Cardiff University is delighted to offer a full time three-year funded Alzheimer’s Society PhD Studentship starting on 3rd October 2022.
It is evident that 60-80% of the risk for developing late onset Alzheimer's Disease (LOAD) is genetic. Multiple genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have independently identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to associate with risk for LOAD. These studies pinpoint APOE and BIN1 as the two most significant genetic risk factors for developing LOAD. Through this PhD studentship you will investigate how changes in these genes alter cellular interaction and function between cortical neurons and microglia using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models.
APOE is known to be involved in the way cells handle fats, the endocytic pathway and in the build-up of amyloid beta. BIN1 is also involved in endocytic recycling and the processing of Alzheimer’s Disease related pathogenic proteins.
This PhD studentship will use cutting-edge iPSC models to investigate the underlying mechanisms of LOAD. You will differentiate these iPSCs into two important cell types in the brain, cortical neurons and microglia. You will use co-culture experiments to study how these two cell types interact. You will investigate how LOAD associated genetic changes can alter the function and phenotypes of one cell type and how this can influence the health of the second cell type in the co-culture. You will study phenotypes including microglial motility, morphology, and phagocytic capability as well as neuronal synaptic health and function.
You will undertake a technique rich training becoming fluent in genetic engineering through the development and design of novel iPSC lines using Crispr/Cas9 technology. Once the iPSC lines have been established you will then use a variety of techniques including qPCR, biochemical assays, immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy and live cellular imaging to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying LOAD.
As well as training in experimental techniques you will participate in seminar series, conferences, and networking events within the UKDRI and the wider department. Cardiff is a member of the wider UKDRI which consists of 7 centres across the UK and includes >750 researchers attracting the brightest minds to tackle dementia. These centres are well connected allowing you to take advantage of cutting-edge techniques, wider collaborations and specific training and development opportunities.
You will be based in the Cardiff UKDRI, an internationally recognised research centre within the school of Medicine at Cardiff University. Cardiff UKDRI offers world leading research facilities with access to advanced methodologies to study neurodegenerative diseases. You will be part of a diverse group of PhD students (~50) and have access to a large and dynamic early career researcher network. Within the School of Medicine and the UKDRI there are comprehensive postgraduate training and development opportunities.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should possess a minimum of an upper second class Honours degree, master's degree, or equivalent in a relevant subject.
Applicants whose first language is not English are normally expected to meet the minimum University requirements (e.g. 6.5 IELTS)
How to Apply
This studentship has a start date of October 2022. In order to be considered you must submit a formal application via Cardiff University’s online application service.
There is a box at the top right of the page labelled ‘Apply’, please ensure you select the correct ‘Qualification’ (Doctor of Philosophy), the correct ‘Mode of Study’ (Full Time) and the correct ‘Start Date’ (October 2022). This will take you to the application portal.
In order to be considered candidates must submit the following information:
• Supporting statement
• CV
• Qualification certificates
• References x 2
• Proof of English language (if applicable)
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