Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. In stroke survivors one of the most prevalent complications is post-stroke cognitive decline, which occurs in up to a third of individuals within five years and impacts significantly on quality of life. With no available treatments, post-stroke cognitive decline is a critically unaddressed and important component of vascular dementia. Despite strong evidence for the important role of innate and adaptive immunity in stroke, research on inflammation as a cause of post-stroke cognitive decline is limited. Many factors will influence and be influenced by immune status early after stroke, including infection (e.g. pneumonia), a common and severe post-stroke complication. Modifiers of immune status after stroke could therefore be a key determinant of cognitive outcome and represent an attractive therapeutic target.
This project aims to further understand how immune/inflammatory mechanisms contribute to post-stroke cognitive decline, using a variety of approaches, including clinically relevant rodent models. Ultimately, we expect findings from the project to inform the future design of clinical trials to prevent/slow post-stroke cognitive decline.
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 or a relevant Master’s degree. Candidates must have previous laboratory experience, ideally using in vivo approaches, and have a clear interest in translational research.
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 PhD Genetics
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.
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/”
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. For more information please visit www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk