This fully funded PhD project at the University of Bristol investigates the mechanisms and neuronal circuits underlying arousal from daily torpor—a short-term hibernation state observed in mammals such as mice. Torpor allows animals to drastically reduce energy consumption and physiological activity in response to environmental stressors like food scarcity or adverse weather. While the induction of torpor and its synthetic triggering are well-studied, the rapid rewarming and arousal phase remains poorly understood, despite its relevance to longevity, organ transplantation, and space travel.

The project aims to identify and map neurons activated during arousal using a novel transgenic mouse line, focusing on key brain regions including the locus coeruleus, raphe pallidus, and tuberomammillary nucleus. Optogenetic techniques will be employed to manipulate these regions and assess their roles in torpor emergence. In parallel, the student will develop a mathematical biology model to describe state transitions between normal and torpor states, guided by advanced compartmental modeling approaches. This interdisciplinary research combines experimental neuroscience, behavioural biology, and applied mathematics, offering training in both laboratory and computational skills.

The student will join a vibrant research community, engage with international experts in hibernation, and benefit from the supportive environment of the SWBio DTP, which encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and offers flexibility for personal circumstances. The studentship covers a four-year period, providing a competitive stipend, full tuition, research costs, and additional support for fieldwork, conferences, and placements. Up to 30% of studentships are available for international applicants.

Applicants should have a strong academic background in relevant fields and an interest in experimental and computational approaches to biological research. The application deadline is December 3, 2025, and further details on the programme and application process are available via the SWBio DTP website.