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PhD student: Synchronising the Brain: Electrical Synapses and Motor Control
Vacancy Reference Number - Closing Date 17 Jan 2025 Salary UKRI rates Duration 4 years
About the Project: Neurons need to be able to communicate quickly with each other to allow an animal to respond to an ever-changing environment. Electrical synapses, mediated by gap junctions, are critical for this rapid neuronal communication. In the inferior olive (IO), a brainstem structure fundamental to motor coordination and learning, these synapses enable precise timing of activity, which is thought to be essential for controlling complex motor behaviours. However, their roles in shaping the neural dynamics necessary for behaviour remain poorly understood. This PhD project uses the larval zebrafish —a model with unparalleled optical accessibility and genetic tractability— to explore the function of electrical synapses within the IO and their influence on motor coordination.
The project integrates cutting-edge techniques to study IO networks and their downstream effects on behaviour. You will use in vivo calcium and/or voltage imaging and genetically encoded glutamate sensors to map IO activity during behaviour. Optogenetics, mutagenesis, and pharmacology will enable you to investigate the precise role of electrical synapses in sensorimotor integration. The project also uses advanced behavioural tracking to study zebrafish responses in tasks such as prey capture and escape, revealing how the IO adapts to context-dependent challenges.
Research Training
This PhD offers rigorous interdisciplinary training in:
1. Microscopy: you will gain expertise in advanced microscopy for real-time imaging of neuronal dynamics.
2. Neural circuit analysis: you will gain experience with optogenetics and neuropharmacological techniques to interrogate neural activity.
3. Genetics and molecular biology: you will develop skills in gene editing and transgenesis.
4. Quantitative analysis: you will receive training in behavioural tracking and coding for data analysis (Python preferred). Computational modelling of neural circuits is also an option.
5. Collaborative science: you will work alongside a multidisciplinary team with a supportive team of supervisors, bridging systems neuroscience, neurobiology, and computational neuroscience.
By the end of the project, you will have developed expertise in cutting-edge experimental approaches and computational skills, preparing you for a competitive career in neuroscience or biomedical research. This project is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in systems neuroscience, an aptitude for experimental innovation, and a passion for understanding how neural circuits drive behaviour.
Key Requirements
Applicants should have a background in neuroscience, biology, or related fields. Programming experience is highly desirable but not essential, as training will be provided.
Further Information
HOW TO APPLY
Application instructions can be found on the EASTBIO website - https://biology.ed.ac.uk/eastbio/how-to-apply
1) Download and complete the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion survey.
2) Download and complete the EASTBIO Application Form.
3) Submit an application to St Andrews University through the Online Application Portal.
Your online application must include the following documents:
- Completed EASTBIO application form
- 2 References (to be completed on the EASTBIO Reference Form, also found on the EASTBIO website)
- Academic Qualifications
- English Language Qualification (if applicable)
Unfortunately due to workload constraints, we cannot consider incomplete applications. Please make sure your application is complete by 17th January 2025.
CONTACT
Queries on the project can be directed to the project supervisor.
Queries on the application process can be directed to Rachel Horn at pgrecbiology@st-andrews.ac.uk
UKRI eligibility guidance: Terms and Conditions: View Website International/EU: View Website
Funding Notes
This 4 year PhD project is part of a competition funded by EASTBIO BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership.
This opportunity is open to UK and International students and provides funding to cover stipend at UKRI standard rate and UK level tuition fees. The University of St Andrews will cover the Home-International fee difference.
Contact Details
Maarten Zwart
mfz[at]st-andrews.ac.uk
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