Development of a new therapeutic strategy in cell models of neurological conditions

This challenge is funded by:

Abstract

ALS is a late onset neurodegenerative illness for which present therapies are solely minimally efficient. Analysis by the neuromuscular workforce at Ulster has discovered that the discharge of tiny bubble-like buildings known as vesicles is irregular within the muscle mass of ALS sufferers: vesicles from ALS affected person muscle cells are poisonous to motor neuron cells within the lab. Since these vesicles enter the bloodstream, they may have a key function in cell-cell communication.

Muscle vesicles could show helpful as biomarkers and drug targets for a spread of well being circumstances. Cross-talk between muscle and various kinds of cells is understudied, has normal relevance to many hallmarks of each ageing and neuromuscular problems, and will have necessary roles past – so our broad perspective is to deal with the understudied function of muscle as a secretory tissue, with relevance to a variety of ailments and wholesome ageing.

The present challenge will use cell tradition fashions to discover a attainable new therapeutic technique for ALS and different neuromuscular and neurodegenerative problems.

This PhD can be appropriate for candidates with a background in a well being or life sciences self-discipline or associated topic (e.g. Personalised Medication, Molecular & Mobile Biology, Medication, Genetics, Biology, Biomedical Science, Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Science, Biochemistry)

Key expertise required:

• Have  a eager curiosity in neurodegenerative ailments and motor neuron ailments
• Prepared  to be taught new expertise and strategies
• Have  glorious communication and interpersonal expertise
• Willingness  to work as half of a giant multidisciplinary workforce
• Prepared  to be taught new expertise and strategies, together with laboratory strategies

Important standards

Candidates ought to maintain, or anticipate to acquire, a First or Higher Second Class Honours Diploma in a topic related to the proposed space of examine.

We may think about functions from those that maintain equal {qualifications}, for instance, a Decrease Second Class Honours Diploma plus a Grasp’s Diploma with Distinction.

In distinctive circumstances, the College could think about a portfolio of proof from candidates who’ve applicable skilled expertise which is equal to the training outcomes of an Honours diploma in lieu of educational {qualifications}.

• Sound understanding of topic space as evidenced by a complete analysis proposal
• A complete and articulate private assertion
• Clearly outlined analysis proposal detailing background, analysis questions, goals and methodology
• Analysis proposal of 1500 phrases detailing goals, aims, milestones and methodology of the challenge
• A demonstrable curiosity within the analysis space related to the studentship

Fascinating Standards

If the College receives numerous candidates for the challenge, the next fascinating standards could also be utilized to shortlist candidates for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Diploma
• Masters at 70%
• Analysis challenge completion inside taught Masters diploma or MRES
• Expertise utilizing analysis strategies or different approaches related to the topic area
• Publications – peer-reviewed
• Publications file applicable to profession stage
• Expertise of presentation of analysis findings

Funding and eligibility

This challenge is funded by:

The scholarship will cowl tuition charges and a upkeep allowance of £18,622 each year for 3 years (topic to passable educational efficiency). Candidates from the UK and Eire are eligible for this award.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled standing underneath the EU Settlement Scheme, who additionally fulfill a 3 12 months residency requirement within the UK previous to the beginning of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY obtain a Studentship overlaying charges and upkeep.
• Republic of Eire (ROI) nationals don’t have to have pre-settled or settled standing underneath the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify.

Candidates who already maintain a doctoral diploma or who’ve been registered on a programme of analysis resulting in the award of a doctoral diploma on a full-time foundation for multiple 12 months (or part-time equal) are NOT eligible to use for an award.

The Doctoral School at Ulster College