PhD Project - University of Sheffield and Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore

Created by Jonathan Knight
Apr 03, 2019
2 min read

PhD Project - University of Sheffield and Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore

Can the nose taste?  Characterisation of a new cell type in the vertebrate olfactory system

Supervisors: Professor Tanya Whitfield, Associate Professor Suresh Jesuthasan

Application deadline: 30th April 2019

Project description:  Animals can sense diverse sensory stimuli, such as sound, light and smell.  This is usually mediated by distinct sense organs, such as the ears, eyes and nose.  Recently, it has become clear that some sensory cells can detect more than one sensory modality.  This project aims to study a distinctive cell type in the olfactory epithelium (nose) of zebrafish, with a shape characteristic of cells that sense mechanical or chemical cues, but which does not fit any known class of olfactory sensory neurons.  The successful applicant will use a combination of approaches to determine the functions of this new cell type: firstly, genes expressed by the cells will be characterised; secondly, neuronal connectivity will be defined, and thirdly, the student will attempt to disrupt development of this new cell type through genome editing.  By identifying specific genes expressed, the student will be able to identify which stimuli the cell is likely to detect, and will test their hypotheses using physiology and genetics.  The project will involve high-resolution image analysis and the use of transgenic animals or dye injection to determine anatomical connection to higher brain centres.  The project is expected to shape our understanding of how multi-sensory integration can influence animal behaviour.

We are seeking an enthusiastic student who is keen to embrace a range of experimental approaches to tackle a problem of sensory neuroscience.  The project offers the exciting opportunity of a two-year placement at a research institute in Singapore.

Key subject areas: Cell Biology / Development, Imaging, Genetics, Sensory Neuroscience


Funding:  This project is fully funded by a 4-year A*STAR Research Attachment Programme (ARAP) studentship.  This includes fees, stipend, travel, a settling-in allowance in Singapore, and research expenses.  Residency restrictions: awards are open to UK/EU citizens only.  Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a First Class or 2.1 UK honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject.

For informal enquiries about this project, please contact:

Professor Tanya Whitfield: Email: t.whitfield@sheffield.ac.uk
http://www.shef.ac.uk/bms/research/whitfield

Associate Professor Suresh Jesuthasan: Email: sureshjj@imcb.a-star.edu.sg
https://www.a-star.edu.sg/imcb/Science/Investigators/Joint-Adjunct-Pls-Profile/ResearchListID/94

Information about the A*STAR Research Attachment Programme can be found at:
https://www.a-star.edu.sg/language/en-SG/Scholarships/For-Graduate-Studies/A-STAR-Research-Attachment-Programme-ARAP

To apply, please fill in the University of Sheffield Postgraduate Online Application form:
https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying
https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply