Seeing inside the brain of Alzheimer’s disease by cryoET

PGR-P-1908

Key facts

Type of research degree: PhD
Application deadline: Ongoing deadline
Country eligibility: International (open to all nationalities, including the UK)
Funding: Non-funded
Supervisors: Dr Rene Frank
Schools: School of Biomedical Sciences

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

The aim of this PhD project is to determine the in situ 3D molecular structures associated with AD to understand disease mechanisms and molecular pathways that can lead to the rational design of a mechanism-based therapy. To this end, we have developed methods combining mouse genetics, post-mortem brain and cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM).

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Full description</h2>

<p>See new story here: <a href="https://www.alzforum.org/news/research-news/amyloid-jungle-plaque-fibrils-mesh-all-manner-vesicles-membranes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.alzforum.org/news/research-news/amyloid-jungle-plaque-fibrils-mesh-all-manner-vesicles-membranes</a></p> <p>The methods used will include: i) Electron tomography and computational image processing. ii) experiments with mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease, post-mortem AD brain iii) Biochemical and genetic labelling. Applicants from all backgrounds, including physical, chemical and biological sciences, are encouraged to apply. Some experience with programming (e.g. Python, Matlab or similar) will be highly advantageous.</p> <p>This project will generate information-rich molecular structures of the mammalian brain that are expected to provide new insights into disease mechanisms. Thus, the student undertaking this research will receive an interdisciplinary training at the cutting edge of structural biology, neuroscience, and dementia research. </p>

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

<p>To apply for this project opportunity applicants should complete an <a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/research-degrees/doc/how-to-apply">online application form</a> and attach the following documentation to support their application. </p> <ul> <li>a full academic CV</li> <li>degree certificate and transcripts of marks</li> <li>Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)</li> </ul> <p>To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;</p> <ul> <li>Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study</li> <li>Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Entry requirements</h2>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">English language requirements</h2>

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<h2 class="heading">Funding on offer</h2>

<p>This project is open to applicants who have the funding to support their own studies or who have a sponsor who will cover these costs. </p> <p> </p>

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>

<p>For information about the application process please contact the Faculty Admissions Team:</p> <p>e: <a href="mailto:fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk">fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>