Computational Modelling of Astrocytes in Brain Health and Disease

This PhD opportunity at Ulster University focuses on the computational modelling of astrocytes, which are increasingly recognised as active regulators of brain activity. Astrocytes play crucial roles in shaping synaptic communication, maintaining network stability, and providing metabolic support to neurons. Malfunctioning astrocytes are implicated in a range of neurological conditions, including epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease, yet the precise mechanisms by which they influence neuronal health remain incompletely understood. The project aims to advance our understanding of astrocyte-neuron interactions by building computational models that incorporate calcium signalling, neurotransmitter dynamics, and metabolic support. You will explore how astrocytic regulation shapes neural dynamics in both healthy and disease states, with a particular focus on conditions such as epilepsy and neurodegeneration, as well as cognitive processes like learning and memory. The scope of the research can be tailored to your interests, offering flexibility and the chance to pursue novel directions. Collaboration is a key aspect of this project. You will work closely with experimental researchers to ensure that model predictions are grounded in biological evidence. Additionally, the project explores applications in NeuroAI, translating astrocytic principles into bio-inspired AI architectures that could enhance the robustness and efficiency of artificial intelligence systems. As a PhD student, you will receive training in cutting-edge computational neuroscience and NeuroAI, collaborate with leading experimental and clinical teams, and have opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences. The skills developed during this project are highly transferable, opening career paths in academia, healthcare innovation, and neurotechnology. The ideal candidate will have a background in biological sciences, computing, mathematics, physics, or engineering, with a strong interest in neuroscience and a willingness to work across disciplines. Prior experience in modelling or coding is desirable but not required. The project is supervised by Dr B Flanagan, Dr C O'Donnell, and Prof L McDaid, who have a strong publication record in astrocyte-neuron interaction modelling. Applications are open until February 27, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the project page on FindAPhD. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of neuroscience, computational modelling, and artificial intelligence.