Start date: 1 Oct 2020
Supervisor: Dr Mohammad K. Hajihosseini
Project description:
There is a resurgent interest in Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) signaling as key regulators of stem cells and neurogenesis in the adult brain. This PhD project draws on the recent discovery of the presence of a distinct pair of FGF and FGF-receptor signaling partners in the adult mammalian subventricular zone (SVZ), a structure and continuously generates new neurons destined for the olfactory bulbs. Our aim is to dissect the role of these signaling partners by addressing the following aims: (i) delineating their precise localization in the SVZ stem cell niche – whether they are expressed by activated or quiescent stem cells, or their immediate descendants, such as the amplifying cells and neuroblasts; (ii) the contribution that FGFexpressing cells make to co-hort of OB neurons generated by SVZ; and (iii) how does deletion of FGF from SVZ cells impact the level or rate of SVZ neurogenesis in vivo. These will be investigated by analsysing the brains of FGF-transgenic reporter and deletor rodent models.
For this project, we seek a motivated candidate with some background in neurobiology and/or developmental biology. The candidate will be trained in a host of cellular and molecular techniques, including PCR-based genotyping, fine dissection isolation, and preparation of sections from adult rodent brain, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry, and high-resolution microscopy with image capture and analysis. Through these studies, the candidate will also become proficient in mouse biology and genetics, neuroanatomy and neural stem cell biology. Moreover, through generic and tailor-made packages, the candidate will acquire a set of transferrable skills, ranging from statistical analysis of biological data to delivering effective presentations, science communication and leadership. The project has the potential to provide the candidate with high impact publication/s and prepare him/her for a research career in neurosciences.
Person Specification:
Acceptable first degrees are Biological Sciences, Neuroscience
The standard minimum entry requirement is 2:1.
Funding notes:
This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK/EU applicants and comprises home/EU tuition fees and an annual stipend of £15,009 for 3 years. Overseas applicants may apply but they are required to fund the difference between home/EU and overseas tuition fees (which for 2019-20 are detailed on the University’s fees pages at https://portal.uea.ac.uk/planningoffice/tuition-fees . Please note tuition fees are subject to an annual increase).
For more information and to apply, please click here.
If you have any queries please contact admissions@uea.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1603 591515 for advice.
