Investigating Neuropeptide Signalling From Synthesis to Survival

About the Project

Project Overview:

Neuropeptides, comprising of short amino acid chains, are potent bioactive molecules with extensive neuromodulatory functions and are predominantly expressed within the central nervous system. Neuropeptides are implicated in various physiological processes, including neurotransmission, neuroendocrine regulation, and modulation of synaptic activity. Alterations in their function can have profound implications for human health and have been linked to various diseases. This highlights them as potential targets for therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases.

This PhD project aims to investigate the regulation of neuropeptide synthesis, post-translational modification, proteolytic processing and secretion. Using in vitro cellular models the student will explore ligand-receptor interactions and their impact on cellular signaling pathways. Neuropeptides play central roles in orchestrating behaviours in response to changes in environmental conditions, regulate lifespan and reproduction. These responses will be investigated using the in vivo nematode Caenorhabditis (C.) elegans model. Neuropeptides and their receptors in C. elegans share homology with those in humans, making it possible to investigate conserved signaling pathways and identify potential drug targets for human diseases.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual who will work at the intersection of biochemistry, genetics, cell signalling and behavioural biology, learning a diverse array of techniques across these areas and gaining experience with multiple model systems.

Bicknell research group:

The Bicknell group is interested in peptide hormone synthesis and processing in humans, specializing in the mammalian stress axis. The lab focuses on the biological roles of peptide hormones derived from pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), a protein produced in the anterior pituitary gland, with the research group usually composed of 2-4 PhD students, Masters and undergraduate students.

Kevei research group:

The Kevei group is focusing on investigating ageing and ageing related diseases using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans model complemented by cellular models with a special focus on Parkinson’s disease. The research group is currently composed of 3-4 PhD students, plus Masters and undergraduate students.

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 Biological Sciences via our online application system.

Further information:

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

Enquiries:

Dr Andrew Bicknell, email: A.B.Bicknell@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.

References

Chandler RJ, Cogo S, Lewis PA, Kevei E. Modelling the functional genomics of Parkinson's disease in Caenorhabditis elegans: LRRK2 and beyond. Biosci Rep. 2021 Sep 30;41(9):BSR20203672. doi: 10.1042/BSR20203672.
Bicknell AB. 60 Years of POMC: N-terminal POMC peptides and adrenal growth. J Mol Endocrinol. 2016 May;56(4):T39-48. doi: 10.1530/JME-15-0269.