Assessing neurotoxicity of insecticides using patterns of brain activity

About the Project

Project Overview:

This work furthers our understanding of how chemicals can cause toxicity in the brain, with an efficient approach to screen compounds for neuroactivity and distinguish between compound effects on firing, bursting, and connectivity patterns. The tools and pipelines used in this PhD will be adapted in the development of new insecticides to help select safe candidates that do not affect consumer health.

The student will investigate the effect of agricultural compounds on neuronal activity, using brain slices and neuronal cultures, as models of the brain. A series of insecticides, including pyrethroids, meta-diamides and isoxazolines will be applied to the cultures or slices, and the student will conduct electrophysiological recordings, using Multi-Electrode Arrays (MEAs) to examine how activity in neural networks is affected. The project also involves gene and protein expression characterization, via PCR and immunohistochemistry. Comparisons will be made to untreated control models. The successful applicant will learn to use MEAs and perform PCR, immunohistochemistry and patch-clamp recordings.

Skills training and opportunities

The project offers excellent opportunities for training and development. You will develop skills in programming and data analysis, delivering poster and powerpoint presentations in conferences, and writing scientific publications. Biological techniques that can be learned include PCR, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, acute slice work using a novel technique for gathering viable slices, possible ELISA and electrophysiology. The student can also network with a vibrant group studying hormonal and neuronal function both in normal physiological states and disease.

Neural Models Group:

Our group uses models of the central nervous system to understand the brain and treat pathologies. We use stem cells, brain slices and primary cells to engineer neural networks that are examined under different conditions, and characterized using techniques such as PCR, electrophysiology and immunohistochemistry.

School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, a 30-minute train ride to central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport.

Our School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling current global challenges faced by society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we moved into a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching. It houses the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces.

In the School of Biological Sciences, you will be joining a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise a range of exciting outreach and public engagement activities.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills.

The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically.

Eligibility:

Applicants should have a good degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with meeting these requirements. With a commitment to improving diversity in science and engineering, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Biomedical Engineering via our online application system.

Further information:

https://www.reading.ac.uk/biological-sciences/research

Enquiries:

Dr. Evangelos Delivopoulos, email: e.delivopoulos@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.

If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.