Karen Faulds

A fully funded PhD position is available through the NorthWestBio Doctoral Training Partnership, hosted at the University of Glasgow and University of Strathclyde. The project, supervised by Binoy Paulose Nadappuram, Gregory Weir, and Karen Faulds, focuses on dynamic multiomic profiling of single sensory neurons to uncover mechanisms of plasticity. The research aims to understand how sensory neurons adapt to external challenges such as excitation, inflammation, and injury, with a particular emphasis on the molecular changes occurring in their long axons and terminals. The student will utilize advanced nanotweezer technology to perform high-resolution, repeated sampling of living neurons, profiling RNA, lipid, and protein changes using RNA-Seq and mass spectrometry. Experiments will involve both human iPSC-derived nociceptors and fluorescently labelled sensory neurons in tissue preparations, providing comprehensive insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sensory neuron plasticity and their role in chronic pain. The successful candidate will receive interdisciplinary training in molecular neuroscience, stem cell biology, advanced bioanalytical techniques, and multiomic data integration, as well as transferable skills in project management, teamwork, and scientific communication. Applicants should have a strong background in neuroscience, biophysics, cell biology, or a related field, and experience with molecular biology or data analysis is desirable. Funding covers tuition and a stipend. For more information and to apply, visit the project link provided.