Investigating lysosomal (dys)function in ageing and neurodegeneration

About the Project

Project Overview:

Ageing is associated with a decline in the functions of an organism (López-Otín, C. et al. Cell, 2023) and correlates with an increased risk of developing diseases in the later life (Niccoli, T. & Partridge, L. Current Biology, 2022). In particular, ageing is a major risk factor in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. These diseases are characterised by the loss of neurons in specific areas of the brain and the accumulation of toxic protein aggregates in the surviving cells. Recent genetic and cellular studies suggest that improving the functionality of the cellular “waste disposal” system, the lysosome, might have beneficial effects on these processes. It has also been demonstrated that lysosome content and functionality worsen with age (Nixon, R. A. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta, 2020). However, a lot needs to be uncovered about how these processes work, how they decline with age, and how this ultimately leads to neurodegeneration.

This project will utilise in vitro and in vivo models of lysosomal dysfunction and protein aggregation to study the common molecular mechanisms underlying ageing and neurodegeneration. In addition to contributing to the characterisation of novel aspects of lysosomal biology, it will suggest potential interventions to improve human health and the society we live in.

The student will learn and use multiple techniques including genetic, cell biology, molecular, imaging and behavioural assays and the related analysis methods, working within a lively and friendly scientific network at the University of Reading.

Cogo group: The Cogo group is a newly established research group within the vibrant scientific community at the University of Reading, utilising C. elegans and cellular models to investigate aging and neurodegeneration. The lab is part of a lively network of national and international collaborators.

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 Biology 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 Sciences via our online application system.

Further information:

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

Enquiries:

Dr Susanna Cogo, email: s.cogo@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.