About the Project
Signal diffusion only goes so far. To transmit information over large distances, cells can use excitable signalling, producing waves that travel across tissues (e.g. brain, ERK and calcium waves). Signalling waves can form self-sustaining patterns that coordinate cell behaviour across tissue scales. The problem is that we don't know what 3D waves look like, limiting our understanding of how information is conveyed within our tissues.
In 2D, there is just one self-sustaining wave pattern–spiral waves—which are observed across many excitable systems. However, biological systems are rarely 2D. In 3D, there are theoretically hundreds of possible wave patterns called "scroll waves". These are spiral sheets (i.e. scrolls) that twist, bend and rotate (misnomer) around an axis. This axis can be knotted or interlinked with other waves. However, the specific 3D structures and dynamics of signalling waves remain elusive because we currently struggle with live imaging cells deep within tissues.
Aims
This project will, for the first time, quantify 3D cell signalling wave patterns. Recent advances in live cell imaging and signalling reporters now make this possible with the amoeba Dictyostelium, a classic model organism for collective behaviour. With this advantage, this project will address two questions: what do 3D signalling waves look like and how do they form?
Methods
To address these aims, the candidate will combine cell culturing, light-sheet microscopy, image analysis and biophysical theory. Consequently, this project is suitable for candidates that want to develop both experimental and computational skills in the fields of collective behaviour, developmental biology and biophysics. For example, you may be a cell biologist looking for quantitative imaging skills or a physicist looking for experimental biology skills. The candidate will join a new lab, working alongside the PI and able to talk through results, ideas and issues on a daily basis. For a smooth transition, experience working with Dictyostelium is preferred.
Project code
HF01
Funding
This project is part of the DPhil in Biology programme. This project covers stipend at the UKRI standard rate, and fees at the home student rate. It is open to any nationality, but in the case of those with overseas fee liability, will only cover fees to the level of home students, and the successful candidate would be responsible for finding the difference in fees (read more here).
For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit the graduate study information on our website.
Eligibility
For full entry requirements and eligibility information, please see the main admissions page.
How to apply
The deadline for applications for 2027/28 entry is 6 January 2027.
You can find the admissions portal and further information about eligibility and the DPhil in Biology Programme at the University's graduate admissions page. Please quote the Project Reference Code alongside the title in the 'Proposed field and title of research project, if applicable' field in the application form.
Institution website: https://www.biology.ox.ac.uk/dphil
References
Ford, H. Z., Manhart, A., & Chubb, J. R. (2023). Controlling periodic long-range signalling to drive a morphogenetic transition. Elife, 12, e83796.
Winfree, A. T. (1980). The geometry of biological time (Vol. 2). New York: Springer.