After meal consumption, the brain evaluates the value of its contents and relays this information via neuronal circuits connecting the periphery with the brain (1,2). Although the brain is now recognised as the master regulator of appetite and energy homeostasis, our understanding of how and which circuits decode the post-ingestive nutritional and hedonic value of food from the periphery to the brain remain largely unknown. The advent of new genetic technologies now provides a powerful means by which to unravel the contribution of discrete neurons to appetitive behaviour and systemic energy balance with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution (2,3,4).
The host laboratories have started to phenotype the neurones in the caudal brainstem, an important brain structure that serves as a first relay station for peripherally generated signals entering the brain (5,6). Published (2,5,7,8) and unpublished data suggest that segregated brainstem circuits selectively respond to distinct nutritional and non-nutritional signals and transmit this information to multiple second order brain regions so that the brain can compute and attribute motivational valence. The overarching aim of this project is to contribute to resolving these circuits and characterise them at the genetic, structural and functional level.
To this end, the student will receive training in using the latest genetic technologies available that will allow him/her to genetically tag distinct neurons after they have responded to the nutritional and non-nutritional signals. This permanent genetic tagging will then allow the student to identify the neurons and their connections, record their activity during normal behaviour and selectively activate/inhibit them to interrogate their significance to behaviour.
Resolving these circuits will not only expand our understanding of how ingestive behaviour is regulated, but it will also inform design of novel medications with improved efficacy and patient compliance.
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.
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.
How to Apply
On the online application form select PhD Endocrinology and Diabetes. In the funding section, state that you intend to apply for the WIS PhD studentships.
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 should be made directly to the primary supervisor.
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 [Email Address Removed]
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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