Synaptotagmin-11 mediates pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) — Wisdom Lake Academy of Pharmacy
Supervisor: Dr Xi Zhang
Applications accepted all year round
Self-Funded PhD Students Only
About the Project
To cultivate research talents with global leadership, interdisciplinary innovation capabilities, and international research collaboration capabilities, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) fully leverages its characteristics of international education and builds upon the long-established strategic cooperation among XJTLU, Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU), and the University of Liverpool (UoL). This initiative integrates top-tier research resources to launch a Joint Doctoral Supervision…
Programme across the three institutions.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic functional encephalopathy caused by the degeneration of dopamine neurons in the midbrain, which leads to decreased motor ability, physiological and psychological disorders, and eventually premature death. Exploring new mechanisms of PD remains one of the most important scientific questions in the field.
Our previous study found that synaptotagmin-11 (Syt11) is not only an important brake protein for vesicular endocytosis (EMBO Rep, 2016), but also mediates neurotoxicity and Parkinsonlike pathologic processes caused by an important PD risk gene by interfering with dopamine vesicle cycle (Nat Commun, 2018). On this basis, we will propose a new hypothesis of vesicle cycle in PD. This project will aim to elucidate the critical role of Syt11 in sporadic PD, and the effectiveness of Syt11 as a therapeutic target for PD.
Joint Supervisory Team:
- XJTLU Supervisor: Dr Xi Zhang
- XJTU Supervisor: Dr Changhe Wang
- UoL Supervisor: Professor Michael Clague
- XJTLU Co-supervisor: Dr Jianrui Song
Requirements:
A UK first-class or upper second-class honours Bachelor's degree and a UK Master's degree with Merit (or their equivalent) are required for PhD admissions. Exceptional candidates holding only a Bachelor's degree may be considered on an individual basis.
Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English.
For more information about entry requirements and admission procedures of PhD programme at XJTLU, please visit:
- Entry Requirement - Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
- How to Apply - Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
Other Requirements (if any):
Preferred qualifications (desired, not required):
- Background in neuroscience and molecular cell biology (a strong wet-lab foundation is essential)
- Practical experience in animal research
- Experience in CADD/AIDD is a plus
Please note: This project does not provide funding for tuition. However, TA positions are available at the university, and the successful candidate is strongly encouraged to apply.
Programme Structure and Fees:
Doctoral students in the joint programme are registered with both XJTLU and the UoL. Upon successful completion of the programme, the students will be awarded a PhD degree from University of Liverpool. During their doctoral studies at XJTLU, students are expected to conduct research at XJTU as visiting students. Additionally, students have the opportunity to apply for a three to six-month research visit to UoL.
The joint doctoral programme is offered on a full-time basis, with a typical duration of three to four years. The tuition fee is RMB 99,000 per year.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants are advised to email Xi.Zhang@xjtlu.edu.cn the following documents for initial review and assessment (Please include the project title in the subject line):
- CV
- Two formal reference letters
- Personal statement outlining your interest in the position
- Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent)
- Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
- Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
- PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available
Where will I study?
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) is an international joint-venture university founded by Xi’an Jiaotong University in China and the University of Liverpool in the UK, which captures the essence of both parent universities, offering students the opportunity to obtain globally recognised UK degree and a unique life experience within China.
Project supervisors
Dr. Xi Zhang
Career overview
Xi Zhang received a PhD degree in Biochemistry from Duke University under the direction of Dr. Tao-shih Hsieh and completed postdoctoral training at the University of California, Berkeley under the guidance of Dr. David G. Drubin. They were appointed as an Associate Professor and PhD supervisor at Peking University and Capital Medical University, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of membrane trafficking in neurons and glia, as well as neurodegenerative diseases. In October 2021, Xi Zhang joined the Academy of Pharmacy at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University. Their current research involves identifying potential drug targets and novel therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative diseases, while continuing mechanistic studies. Xi Zhang is recognised as an expert in membrane trafficking and neurodegenerative diseases, having published papers in various reputable journals as a corresponding author. They welcome interdisciplinary collaborations and encourage motivated undergraduate and graduate students majoring in Biology or related disciplines to join their lab.
Research interests
Prof. Zhang's research focuses on the identification of potential drug targets and novel therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative diseases. They are an expert in membrane trafficking and neurodegenerative diseases, specifically studying the molecular mechanisms of membrane trafficking in neurons and glia. Their research interests include novel drug targets, therapeutic interventions, and the role of synaptotagmin in neuroinflammation and synaptic processes. Prof. Zhang has published papers in various reputable journals, including EMBO Reports, Journal of Neuroscience, Glia, Cell Molecular Life Sciences, FASEB Journal, Molecular Neurobiology, and Frontiers in Cell Neuroscience, among others. They welcome interdisciplinary collaborations and are keen to involve motivated undergraduate and graduate students majoring in Biology or related disciplines in their research.
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