PhD: Neuro-Immune Interactions: The Sensory Transduction and Nociception Group at the Institute for Neurosciences (UMH-CSIC), Alicante (Spain), is offering a fully funded PhD position to explore neuro-immune interactions in pain signalling, with a special focus on the role of mast cells in nociceptor sensitization and inflammatory pain resolution. This is a unique opportunity to pursue doctoral studies in Neuroscience within a cutting-edge, collaborative international environment.
📋 Scholarship Overview
| Title | PhD Position in Neuro-Immune Interactions in Pain Signalling |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student |
| Research Area | Neuroscience, Neuroimmunology, Pain Signalling |
| Location | Institute for Neurosciences (UMH-CSIC), Alicante, Spain |
| Degree Awarded By | University Miguel Hernández |
| Duration | 4 years (subject to positive evaluation after Year 1) |
| Application Deadline | Not specified (Apply as soon as possible) |
🎯 Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Biomedicine/Biomedical Sciences
- Biotechnology
- (Molecular) Biology
- Or related fields
- Strong interest in neuroscience and the immune system
- Collaborative mindset and eagerness to work in an international, interdisciplinary lab
- Willingness to work with animal models (rodents); certification in animal handling is a plus
- Excellent English communication skills
🧪 Project Description
The research focuses on the dual role of mast cells in pain development and resolution. Upon activation, mast cells release diverse bioactive molecules that can either sensitize or alleviate nociceptor activity, depending on the neuro-immune context. The PhD student will investigate:
- Signalling pathways employed by mast cells
- Specific mediators involved in nociceptor modulation
- Neuro-immune dynamics in inflammatory pain scenarios
🌟 What’s Offered
- Full-time, 4-year funded PhD position
- Participation in a world-class, international research institute
- Hands-on training with state-of-the-art tools and facilities
- A dynamic, friendly, and collaborative research group
- Opportunities to work on international collaborations and broaden scientific expertise
📩 How to Apply
Interested candidates should email the following documents to Dr. Javier Aguilera-Lizarraga at: javier.aguileral@umh.es
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Concise cover letter describing motivation and career goals
- Contact details of two academic referees
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a live or remote interview.
For questions or more information, feel free to reach out to the contact above. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking neuroscience research in Spain!
