PhD Position – Neurokinin 3 Receptor: Join a groundbreaking research project at the Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, focused on characterizing the role of the Neurokinin 3 Receptor (NK3R) in the pathophysiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This PhD opportunity offers a comprehensive investigation into the molecular mechanisms underlying interneuron dysfunction in ASD and explores NK3R as a potential therapeutic target.
- 🎓 Program: PhD
- 📍 Location: St Lucia
- 🧪 Research Area: Biological sciences, Biomedical and clinical sciences
- 📝 Project Description:
- Focus on disrupting interneuron activity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
- Investigating Neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) as a key regulator of interneuron development.
- NK3R modulation during brain maturation alters adult function and induces ASD-like symptoms in mice.
- Altered NK3R expression found in the prefrontal cortex of ASD cases.
- Specific NK3R regulation restores normal brain function and behavior in ASD models.
- Aims to explore NK3R pathway as a potential target for ASD symptom treatment.
- 🧠 Research Environment:
- Conducted at the Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland.
- Well-equipped with facilities like Biomolecular Research Facility, Imaging Facility, electrophysiology rigs, and behavioral apparatus.
- 💰 Scholarship:
- Earmarked scholarship aligned with an Australian Government grant.
- Includes a tax-free living stipend, covered tuition fees, and overseas student health cover.
- 👩🔬 Supervisor:
- Principal supervisor: Dr Nathalie Dehorter, Queensland Brain Institute.
- Prospective candidates advised to contact Dr. Dehorter before applying.
- 🎓 Preferred Educational Background:
- Assessment based on academic record, publication history, honors, awards, and employment.
- Beneficial to have knowledge in neuroscience, genetics, pharmacology, and/or molecular biology.
- Academic achievement in neuroscience and potential for scholastic success required.
- Background or knowledge in cellular/molecular biology highly desirable.
- 📅 How to Apply:
- Project commencement in Research Quarter 2, 2025.
- Application deadline: Recommended by 26 February, 2024.
- Eligibility check, document preparation, and contact with Dr. Dehorter required before application submission.
Table: Position Details
| Designation | Research Area | Location | Eligibility/Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD Student | Biological sciences, Biomedical and clinical sciences | St Lucia, Queensland Brain Institute | Bachelor’s/Master’s degree, background in neuroscience, genetics, pharmacology, or molecular biology. |
Job Description:
- Investigate the role of NK3R in interneuron development and its impact on ASD-like symptoms.
- Employ electrophysiology, imaging, genetics, and molecular biology techniques to characterize NK3R activity in cortical interneurons.
- Explore NK3R-related pathways as potential targets for ASD symptom treatment.
- Contribute to groundbreaking research opening new perspectives for neurobiological targets amenable to therapy.
Research Environment:
- Queensland Brain Institute provides an exceptional research environment.
- State-of-the-art facilities include the Biomolecular Research Facility, Imaging Facility, electrophysiology rigs, and behavioral apparatus.
Scholarship:
- Earmarked scholarship project aligned with an Australian Government grant.
- Living stipend of $33,641 per annum (tax-free), indexed annually.
- Tuition fees covered.
- Single overseas student health cover (OSHC) included.
Supervisor:
- Principal Supervisor: Dr. Nathalie Dehorter, Queensland Brain Institute.
- Contact Dr. Nathalie Dehorter (n.dehorter@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability before applying.
Preferred Educational Background:
- Competitive assessment based on academic record, publication record, honors, awards, and employment history.
- Working knowledge of neuroscience, genetics, pharmacology, and/or molecular biology is beneficial.
How to Apply:
- Project start: Research Quarter 2, 2025. Apply by 26 February 2024.
- Check eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
- Prepare documentation.
- Contact Dr. Nathalie Dehorter (n.dehorter@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest.
- Apply for the scholarship when submitting a PhD application.
Disclaimer: This job post is based on information from a reliable source. Candidates are advised to verify details and refer to the official University of Queensland website for the latest and most accurate information regarding the position, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines.
