PhD Studentship: Building Brain Circuits: decoding RNA processing in the developing mammalian cortex

University of Exeter - Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences

The mammalian cerebral cortex contains a wide diversity of neuronal cell types that form highly specific connections during postnatal development to support complex behaviour. A major emerging question is how post-transcriptional mechanisms – including RNA processing – shape when and where proteins are produced to guide synapse formation and refinement. These processes are increasingly implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

This PhD project will investigate how an RNA processing enzyme controls the development of cortical circuits in the mouse brain. The successful candidate will use transgenic mouse lines and in vivo manipulations to explore the developmental expression and roles of this enzyme in synapse formation. In addition to mouse models, key techniques will include biochemical approaches, fixed tissue imaging and analyses of circuit development.

This studentship is an excellent opportunity to drive fundamental discoveries in an exciting area of neurodevelopment, and to gain essential research skills. We encourage students interested in neuronal cell biology, neural circuits and developmental neuroscience to apply.