Exploring molecular pathways of memories using single-cell transcriptomics, functional imaging and behavioural testing

In this project you will explore molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of new memories in the brain. Utilising fruit flies, a powerful and widely adopted model organism in neuroscience, you will leverage recent technological advancements that have significantly expanded the scope of research into the fly brain.

First, you will apply cutting-edge high-throughput single-cell transcriptomics, a technique we pioneered in the fly brain, to track dynamic molecular changes in individual memory cells. Second, you will use comprehensive transgenic fly libraries to selectively manipulate molecules (e.g. receptors, intracellular signalling molecules, neuro-active compounds) in targeted neural cell types and assess the effects on memory formation using functional imaging and behavioural assays that are routinely done in our lab. Third, you will integrate these molecular processes into the neural wiring diagram of the fruit fly brain, which has recently been fully mapped.

This project offers a unique opportunity to delve into ground-breaking and fundamentally novel research questions, with the flexibility to either focus on an ongoing research question or even develop and test your own hypotheses.

To learn more about this exciting opportunity feel free to contact Christoph directly.

This project is part of the Behaviour & Biomechanics theme in the Department of Biology.

References

• https://doi.org/10.1093/genetics/iyad085
• https://www.science.org/stoken/author-tokens/ST-363/full
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07558-y

Funding

This project is part of the DPhil in Biology programme, and is not a funded course at the University of Oxford; as such, students are expected to explore options for funding. However, we anticipate being able to offer around 6 full graduate scholarships to incoming DPhil Students in 2025-26.

You will be automatically considered for several Oxford scholarships, which cover fees and stipend, if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by 8 January 2025. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and potential to excel as a DPhil student. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit the graduate study information on our website.

Eligibility

For full entry requirements and eligibility information, please see the main admissions page.

How to apply

The deadline for applications for 2025-2026 entry is midday 8 January 2025. We will continue to accept applications submitted after 8 January 2025, but these late applications will not be considered for scholarship funding.

You can find the admissions portal and further information about eligibility and the DPhil in Biology Programme at the University’s graduate admissions page.

Please quote the Project Reference Code in the ‘Proposed field and title of research project, if applicable’ field in the application form.

Project code: innovaTEbehaviour_2024

Institution Website: https://www.biology.ox.ac.uk/graduate-study