PhD in Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences: Investigating the childhood neurodevelopmental origins of adult mental illness

Childhood neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) such as autism and ADHD affect 1 in 10 children. This group are at hugely elevated risk of later mental illnesses such as depression and psychosis. We do not know why this happens. One explanation for the relationships is pleiotropy- shared genetic risks that contribute to both child NDD and adult mental illnesses. However, there are alternative explanations that require testing.

The aim of this PhD is to capitalise on very large population-based cohorts and globally available genomic data to test a series of hypotheses about links between child NDDs and adult mental illness. The findings will have different implications for subtyping NDDs, treatment and prevention.

Applications must be made via the University’s online application service SIMS Online. Candidates are only permitted to submit one application but may select a maximum of three projects, ranked in order of preference. 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)

The process for applying will be made clear on the advertisements. The PGR Office will be responsible for checking eligibility.

Applications will be accepted for UK and EU candidates wishing to study on a full time basis staring on 1st October 2018. Candidates must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree or the equivalent in an appropriate area of biomedical sciences. Applicants with a Lower Second Class degree will be considered if they also have a Master’s degree or have significant relevant non-academic experience. Candidates will need to have achieved at least 6.5 in IELTS (and no less than 6.5 in any section) by the start of the programme.