Microbiology

This fully funded 4-year PhD opportunity investigates how influenza viruses interact with other microbes in a host and explores the molecular mechanisms by which glial cells safeguard brain energetics, cognition, and resilience to inflammation in health and ageing. The project is a collaboration between Lancaster University and Queen's University Belfast, offered under the NORTHWEST BIOSCIENCES Doctoral Training Partnership. Supervisors include Dr Shefeeq Theparambil, Dr Julia Edgar, Dr Cheryl Hawkes, and Professor Muhammad Munir. The research will focus on understanding how neurons communicate energy needs to glial cells, how glia respond metabolically, and how these processes change with ageing, contributing to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. The student will receive training in advanced live-cell fluorescence imaging, molecular and biochemical analyses, and animal behavioural studies. Applicants should have a strong background in biological or biomedical sciences and be motivated to work in an interdisciplinary environment. The position is fully funded, covering tuition and providing a stipend. The application deadline is November 21, 2024. Interested candidates should review the project details and application process via the provided links and contact the supervisors for informal discussions.