Development of quantitative imaging biomarkers for characterization of neural functional abnormalities in preclinical models of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Vacancy Reference Number

https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/studentships/characterization-of-neural-functional-abnormalities/

Closing Date

31 Mar 2025

Salary

UKRI PhD level

Address

Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences University of Liverpool UK

Duration

4 years

This multi-institutional Dual PhD project between the University of Liverpool and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India. The project aims to develop quantitative magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopic imaging biomarkers to assess abnormalities in neural function and metabolism in well-established preclinical models of neurological disorders. Specifically, the project will initially develop and validate longitudinal diffusion tensor tractography and MR spectroscopy in a Trappc9 knockout model of intellectual disability, which demonstrates microcephaly and learning disabilities (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38331351/). Once established, these makers will be evaluated in other animal models including models of autism spectrum disorders and stress due to early maternal separation and isolation.

Further Information

Applications should be made to the project supervisors, Harish Poptani (harishp@liverpool.ac.uk) or Antonius Plagge (plagge@liverpool.ac.uk, in the first instance via CV and cover letter.
Candidates will be invited to interview with UoL and NIMHANS. Both Parties must approve the admission, in line with the terms of the Dual PhD Programme.
The successful candidate should then submit a formal application through the University online application form https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/how-to-apply/
Please specify on your application that you are applying for the NIMHANS Dual PhD Programme.
Start date will be determined after formal approval from both partners and in consideration of the NIMHANS Dual PhD Agreement.

Training
The project will provide training in several strategic areas including quantitative skills in neuroimaging, metabolism, behavioural biology and experimental design involving animals. In addition, interdisciplinary skills such as preclinical imaging, genotyping, behaviour assays, histology and immunohistochemistry will also be provided by the supervisory team.
Applicants must have a Master’s degree in either biomedical sciences, bioengineering or a relevant field. Due to funding restrictions, only UK citizens or residents with permanent residency in UK are eligible to apply (applicants must be classed as HOME for fee purposes).
The successful candidate will commit to spending up to two years at the University of Liverpool and up to two years at NIMHANS in Bengaluru (India). The expected pattern of study for this studentship is Year 1 and Year 2 based in Liverpool and Year 3 and Year 4 based in India.

Contact Details

Prof Harish Poptani: harishp@liverpool.ac.uk
Dr Antonius Plagge: plagge@liverpool.ac.uk

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