Applications are invited for a 4-year BBSRC iCASE PhD studentship in collaboration with Shionogi in the area of interoception and impulsive/compulsive disorders starting in October 2019 at the Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge.
The successful candidate will conduct research under the supervision of Dr David Belin at the Cambridge Addiction Lab and in collaboration with Dr Naotaka Horiguchi at Shionogi Laboratory.
The project focuses on identifying the contribution of peripheral and central opioidergic mechanisms to the contribution of interoceptive control over adaptive and maladaptive behaviours such as those involved in impulsive/compulsive spectrum disorders. We address this challenge using an interdisciplinary approach based on longitudinal studies that combines state-of-the-art behavioural procedures in rats, neuropharmacology, calcium imaging and optogenetic techniques as well as molecular biology.
Candidates should have a first or upper second class degree in neuroscience and meet the University of Cambridge entrance requirements - see: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/entry-requirements
The studentship will cover a stipend at the standard Research Council rate (£14,777 per annum as at 2018/19), research costs and tuition fees at the UK/EU rate, and is available for UK and EEA students who meet the UK residency requirements. Students from EEA countries who do not meet the residency requirements may still be eligible for a fees-only award.
The studentship is part of the BBSRC DTP Programme. The first six months will be spent completing tailored training before progressing to a PhD. An important element of the Programme is an internship at Shionogi to gain experience in a non-academic environment. The Programme organises a number of events, training courses and workshops to foster cohort development, skills enhancement and networking opportunities.
Candidates from outside the EEA are not eligible for this studentship and should not apply.
Informal enquiries about the project may be made to Dr David Belin bdb26@cam.ac.uk
To apply please:
Complete the University GRADSAF application form by 5 December 2018. The course code is BLPC22 (PhD in Psychology).
https://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/how-do-i-apply
With your GRADSAF application you will be required to submit (i) a draft research proposal outlining your suitability, why you are interested in pursuing a PhD in this area, your background and research interests. (ii) your CV stating your citizenship and years of residence in the UK (iii) copies of your academic transcripts (iv) details of two academic referees.
Please inform Mrs Dawn Ellis (dle31@cam.ac.uk) when you have made an application, please add ‘BBSRC iCASE Studentship’ to the subject line of your e-mail.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview within two weeks from the application deadline.
The University values diversity and is committed to equality and opportunity.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
For more information and to apply, click here
Mrs Dawn Ellis: dle31@cam.ac.uk
Dr David Belin: bdb26@cam.ac.uk
