PhD Studentships in Neuroscience (x2)

Department of Neuroscience/Anatomy, BioSciences Institute, University College Cork, Ireland

Cork NeuroScience Group

Applications are invited for two 3-year Ph.D. studentships, funded by the Science Foundation of Ireland, which will commence in September 2008. We welcome applications from motivated candidates who possess, or expect to obtain, an upper 2.1 or 1^st class Honours B.Sc. degree or M.Sc. in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Biochemistry or a related discipline.

1. Neuroinflammation Research Group

Role of IL-1 receptor type 1 in hippocampal neurogenesis

Neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons, occurs throughout adulthood in the hippocampus. We have shown that inflammation contributes to neural precursor cell (NPC) dysfunction and that the interleukin-1 type 1 receptor (IL-1R1) is present on hippocampal NPCs. The aim of this project is to investigate the role of IL-1R1 on the survival and neuronal lineage fate of adult hippocampal NPCs using pharmacological and molecular manipulation (overexpression, shRNA knockdown). Results may be important in developing neurogenesis augmentation therapies for age-related cognitive disorders.

This is a collaborative project, which will be supervised by Dr. Yvonne Nolan and Dr. Kumlesh Dev (Department of Anatomy/Neuroscience, UCC).

Contact and send applications to:

Dr. Yvonne Nolan, Department of Anatomy/Neuroscience, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Ireland.

Email: y.nolan@ucc.ie / Tel.: +353 21 490 2787

2. Molecular Neuropharmacology Research Group

Role of a novel Parkin complex in neuronal function

Parkin regulates the toxic build-up of many proteins in neurons, but when mutated in Parkinson’s disease (PD), parkin losses this ability. We have uncovered new molecular evidence that links parkin to the powerhouses of neurons, namely the mitochondria. In this project, using a range of molecular, biochemical and cellular approaches, we aim to develop blocking agents (lentiviral, siRNA and novel target-peptides) that regulate parkin’s link to mitochondria to restore function and prevent neuronal death. The goal is to develop novel therapies that slow progression of PD.

This project will be supervised by Dr. Kumlesh Dev (Department of Anatomy/Neuroscience, UCC).

Contact and send applications to:

Dr. Kumlesh K. Dev, Department of Anatomy/Neuroscience, Biosciences Institute, University College Cork, Ireland.

Email: k.dev@ucc.ie/ Phone +353 21 490 2028

To apply send:

• a copy of your CV
• cover letter describing your interest in this position and clear statements regarding your competence
• contact details of 2 academic referees

Closing date:  July 1^st 2008

UCC is an Equal Opportunities Employer.