Investigating Neuronal Network Dysregulation in Genetic Absence Seizures Using a 3D Human Brain Model

About the Project

This studentship offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of translational drug discovery, developing advanced 3D disease models for neurological disorders using stem cell technologies and gene editing approaches including CRISPR/Cas9 to generate patient-specific models. In parallel, the project will explore innovative peptide-based therapeutics for absence seizure. By integrating cutting-edge stem cell biology, molecular neuroscience, peptide chemistry and pharmacology, the project will provide the successful applicant with broad, highly sought-after interdisciplinary expertise.

The student will work with patient-derived SLC6A1 iPSC lines, each carrying three distinct variants, to compare their phenotypes and determine how specific point mutations influence seizure-related cellular and network dysfunction. In addition, the student will investigate a novel therapeutic strategy designed not only to manage absence seizure activity but also to improve the cognitive impairment commonly observed in affected patients.

The project will also provide training in the development of multifunctional peptide platforms designed for targeted therapeutic delivery, including strategies for selective astrocytic targeting. This approach represents a next-generation strategy to enhance treatment specificity and overcome limitations associated with conventional drug delivery. The work will contribute directly to innovative therapeutic design with clear clinical relevance.

The student will gain hands-on experience generating and maintaining patient-derived 3D neuronal models from iPSCs and applying advanced functional technologies, including multi-electrode array recording and proteomic analyses. Training will also include gene editing, rational drug design, peptide synthesis and modification (including incorporation of non-standard amino acids and lipidation strategies) and targeted drug delivery. The student will develop expertise in evaluating therapeutic efficacy, pathway modulation, and safety profiling across relevant cellular models. This integrated training across chemistry and biology provides a strong foundation for careers in academia or the pharmaceutical industry.

Importantly, the project involves international collaborations with the SLC6A1 Network and colleagues at the University of Lisbon (Portugal). It has clear translational potential and is designed to generate high-impact preclinical data to support the development of first-in-class therapeutic strategies.

The student will be embedded within a highly collaborative research environment, working alongside experts in neurological disorders, pharmacology and drug development. This setting will provide valuable opportunities to present findings at national and international conferences and to publish in peer-reviewed journals.

This studentship will particularly appeal to motivated applicants interested in translational medicine, targeted therapeutics, and addressing major unmet clinical needs. It offers intellectual challenge, technical breadth, and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution toward improving outcomes for neurological disorders patients.

Funding

Students who have, or are expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, are invited to apply. Funding is available for Home (UK) students to cover tuition fees, a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (indicative amount in year 1 in 2026-27, £21,805) and research costs, for four years. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates. There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.

Funding for this studentship is awarded on a competitive basis and is not guaranteed; availability will depend on the outcome of the selection process and subject to final approval by the University.

HOW TO APPLY

Please complete the following application form – Google Form

Applicants can only apply for 1 project; any additional applications will not be accepted.

Applicants should send the following documents to FMSstudentships@newcastle.ac.uk:

• a CV (including contact details of at least two academic (or other relevant) referees).
• a Cover letter – stating your project choice, as well as including additional information you feel is pertinent to your application.
• copies of your relevant undergraduate degree transcripts and certificates.
• a copy of your IELTS or TOEFL English language certificate (where required)
• a copy of your passport (photo page).

(You can check that you meet Newcastle University English Language requirements using this link - International Students: English Language Requirements | Newcastle Uni | Newcastle University)

A GUIDE TO THE FORMAT REQUIRED FOR THE APPLICATION DOCUMENTS IS AVAILABLE

Please submit your documents in the following format only:

• each document should be submitted as a separate attachment and should be named as follows: candidate surname, candidate name – document type. For example: Jones, Jamie – CV; Jones, Jamie – cover letter.
• Please submit .pdf documents where possible for your CV, cover letter, transcripts and certificates. Do not submit photos of certificates.
• Do not combine documents into one pdf. You may zip separate documents into a zip file to send via email if required.
• When emailing your application, please use the email subject header: FMS PhD Application 2026

Applications not meeting these criteria may be rejected.

Informal enquiries may be made to the lead supervisor of the project you are interested in.

The deadline for all applications is 12 noon BST (UK time) on Wednesday 20th May 2026.