3D-resolved optogenetic excitation using time-averaged speckle patterns

(4 year MRes + PhD studentship)

This project is on offer in the Imperial College EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Neurotechnology for Life and Health

Supervisors: Chris Rowlands (Bioengineering), Paul Chadderton (Bioengineering)

The brain controls complex behaviour by the concerted activity of large numbers of neurons, but controlling many specific neurons independently is beyond the reach of current technology. A new technique for controlling neurons using light can operate on hundreds of cells in parallel, but exciting a specific neuron is very challenging; using conventional patterning, neurons above and below the target plane will be unavoidably excited. This project will be to develop a new type of holographic system that can efficiently excite single neurons without triggering an action potential in surrounding cells, either by routing the light around them, or by illuminating too small an area to recruit surrounding ion channels.

The CDT programme is not a standard PhD programme; it begins with a one-year MRes in Neurotechnology, which comprises 3 months of taught courses followed by the MRes research project. Students then enter the PhD phase having developed the interdisciplinary and technical skills to thrive in a cutting edge research environment, and make the most impact with their PhD. Throughout the 4 years, there is considerable emphasis upon multidisciplinary and transferrable skills, through centre activities beyond the individual research project. More details on the CDT can be found at http://www.imperial.ac.uk/neurotechnology/cdt.

Applicants should have (or be expecting) a first or upper second class degree (or non-UK equivalent) in an engineering or physical science subject. Students with a biological and medical sciences background may be considered (depending on the individual project) but candidates must have sufficient quantitative skills to thrive in the programme. You should be looking for a challenging, multi-disciplinary PhD at the interface of neuroscience and engineering.

To apply online, visit www.imperial.ac.uk/neurotechnology/cdt/apply/

If you have questions or would like further information about the project, we encourage you to contact the supervisors directly before making your formal application.