MSc by Research: Characterization of the molecular and cellular function of the schizophrenia risk factor CUL9

We invite applications for an exciting MSc Research Project investigating the function of risk factors for neurodevelopmental conditions in membrane trafficking in neurons.

The MSc by Research programme at the University of Aberdeen is for students interested in a research-intensive master’s degree. It is designed specifically to enhance your skills for a PhD or research career. If you have your own ideas for a research project in this area, we would love to hear from you! Please reach out to one of the project supervisors above to discuss your ideas. You can find further information about our academic requirements and MSc by Research programme structure here.

Background:

Schizophrenia is a severe and long term psychiatric illness characterized by behavioural and cognitive symptoms that affects approximately 1% of the population and about 220,000 people in the UK only. Our current understanding of this condition is limited, and the only treatments available are antipsychotics which have restricted efficacy and severe side effects. Despite recent advances in the identification of genetic factors, the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with the pathology are still not well understood. Uncovering the function of these genes is crucial to the development of new treatments of neurological diseases such as schizophrenia.

Research Objectives:

The goal of this project is to elucidate the function of CUL9, a gene encoding a ubiquitin ligase, whose expression was recently found to be altered in schizophrenia patients. The function of CUL9 is poorly characterized, especially in the nervous system, however, we have recently identified two interactors of CUL9 that control the movement of proteins and vesicles within neurons. The objective of this project is to investigate the cooperation between these three neuronal proteins in membrane trafficking. Our overall aim is to characterize how CUL9 may impact neuronal structure and activity with the goal to understand how this pathway might be affected in neurons of schizophrenia patients.

Training:

The student will receive training in cutting edge biomedical techniques including exogenous gene expression, biochemical analysis (western blotting, immunoprecipitations, ubiquitination assays), immunohistochemistry, molecular biology (plasmid DNA preparations), and confocal/fluorescence microscopy. The MSc candidate will also receive training in data analysis, scientific writing, and result presentation. This position is an exceptional opportunity to acquire new technical and transferable skills to develop one’s career as a researcher or in any other non-academic endeavour.

Academic Environment:

The MSc candidate will join the Institute of Medical Sciences within the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition at the University of Aberdeen which provides a unique environment that fosters scientific enrichment. Both supervisors are members of the Neuroscience theme that brings together fellow students and experts in the field. The University of Aberdeen and our lab are fully committed to promoting an inclusive and supportive research culture and we actively encourage candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds to apply.

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Applicants to this project should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.

We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities, and are committed to having a diverse, inclusive team.

Informal enquiries are encouraged, please contact Dr Emilie Hollville ([email protected]) for further information.

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APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please note: This is a self-funded opportunity.

• Prospective students should contact the lead supervisor (via the email address listed above) to discuss the research project and complete a proposal form prior to / or shortly after applying.
• Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
• You should apply for Medical Sciences (MSc) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team.
• Please clearly note the name of the supervisor and the project title on the application form. If this is not included, your application may not be considered for the project.
• Candidates should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) at undergraduate level.
• Your application must include: a personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.
• If you are still undertaking your undergraduate degree, it is helpful to the selection panel if you could provide documentation showing your grades to date (this can be a screenshot from an online portal).
• Please note: Project supervisors will not respond to requests for funding assistance.
• If you require any additional assistance in submitting your application or have any queries about the application process, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected]