Fixed-term

This is a 3.5-year PhD studentship funded by the Leverhulme Trust, starting in Autumn 2026 under the supervision of Dr Varun Sreenivasan, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex. What you get Funding will cover tuition fees for UK students (at the Home rate), a stipend at the UKRI rate, and a consumables budget. Type of award Postgraduate Research PhD project Complex movements form the basis of many behaviours and understanding them at a fundamental level remains an open challenge in neuroscience. Primary motor cortex or M1 is a critical brain region for volitional motor control. Investigations to date have addressed how M1 in the adult brain controls movements, and decades of research have uncovered an important property that relates movement to neuronal and circuit function in this region – motor maps. But how and when do motor maps form in the developing cortex, and why did this property emerge during cortical evolution? Our experiments will address these open questions in the mouse’s whisker system by combining optogenetic motor mapping, behavioural filming and developmental perturbations. By specifically deleting Coup-TF1, a key transcription factor which suppresses motor identity in “non-motor” regions during development, we will test a novel hypothesis which posits that expanding M1 into “non-motor” regions will restructure cortical motor maps. Further details on the lab can be found at https://www.sysneurodevlab.org/ Eligibility Candidates should have or expect to obtain a minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree. An MSc degree is advantageous. Your qualification should be in Neuroscience. You may also be considered for this position if you have professional qualifications or experience in engineering. Candidates should demonstrate willingness to build and program their experimental setup and learn data analysis. Candidates for whom English is not their first language will require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall or equivalent proficiency – English language requirements Deadline 30 April 2026 23:45 How to apply Please submit a formal application using the online admissions portal attaching a CV, degree transcripts and certificates, and two academic referees. A research proposal is not required. Instead, please upload a personal statement describing your subject areas of interest, skills and previous experience, motivation for Doctoral Research, future goals, and why you are applying to this project. On the application system select Programme of Study – PhD Neuroscience. Please select ‘funding obtained’ and state the supervisor’s name where required. Contact us For enquiries about the application process, please email Emma Chorley: fosem-rec@sussex.ac.uk For enquiries about the project, please email Dr Varun Sreenivasan at v.sreenivasan@sussex.ac.uk

Details This project is one of 21 four year PhD Studentships funded by Medical Research Scotland (MRS) (https://www.medicalresearchscotland.org.uk) to be delivered jointly by the named University and External Partner Organisation (EPO). The Studentship will provide first-class academic, and additional training provided by the EPO, needed to equip the successful candidate for a science career in an increasingly competitive market. “Treating artery disease by blocking harmful messages sent between cells” to be delivered by the University of Aberdeen [Supervisors: Dr Nimesh Mody, Professor Mirela Delibegovic (both School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen) and Dr Naveed Akbar (Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford)] and Vesiculab Ltd (www.vesiculab.com) [External Partner Organisation supervisor: Dr Dimitri Aubert]. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty deposits in blood vessels, is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. Recent research shows that tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs), released by unhealthy cells, can carry harmful molecules that worsen this disease. These EVs are produced when lipotoxic pathways increase in the liver, especially in response to unhealthy diets or inflammation. This leads to higher levels of lipotoxicity and insulin resistance linked to both liver and heart disease. Our previous work and other studies have shown that blocking this pathway could reduce disease risk. This project aims to test whether turning off specific genes in liver cells using a targeted therapy, can decrease lipotoxic levels of these harmful molecules and EVs, and thereby slow down processes linked to atherosclerosis in disease models. You will study how these isolated EVs affect other cells involved in blood vessel health and inflammation. Specifically, you will determine the role of EV-mediated communication to the increased buildup of fatty deposits in blood vessels in functional in vivo and cellular assays. By understanding and blocking this harmful cell-to-cell communication, our research could lead to new treatments for atherosclerosis and related conditions, improving heart and liver health for many people. In addition, you will gain hands-on experience with the industrial collaborator since the proposed project aligns closely with their strategic and commercial objectives by advancing the applications and development of our solutions for EV production, isolation, and sample preparation. ENQUIRIES: Enquiries should be sent by email to: smmsn-pgrenquiries@abdn.ac.uk APPLICATIONS: Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, a first class UK honours degree or a 2:1 honours degree, or equivalent for degrees obtained outside the UK, in a relevant subject. It would be desireable for the candidate to have experience in cell culture and isolation and characterisation of extracellular vesicles. We welcome applications from those returning from a career break, industry, or other roles, and exceptions can be made where applicants demonstrate excellence through alternative means, including performance in masters courses, professional placements, internships, or employment. Applications should be sent by email to: smmsn-pgrenquiries@abdn.ac.uk Your application should be a single email with the subject line: “Nimesh Mody MRS Scotland – [Your Name]” and include only these documents: •   A cover letter addressed to the supervisor of the project you are applying for indicating why you are interested in the studentship and what qualities you can bring to the Studentship. •    An up-to-date CV detailing your academic qualifications, work, and any other relevant experience (the names and contact details (including email addresses) of at least two academic referees). •    Clear copies of your degree certificates and transcripts (if available). Important Notes: •   No research proposal is required. •   Please do not include any additional documents (e.g., high school certificates, conference papers/attendance certificates, dissertations). Please note, your application may be shared with the funders of this PhD Studentship, Medical Research Scotland and Vesiculab Ltd. Interviews are expected to take place 3-4 weeks after the closing date for applications. It is anticipated that the PhD Studentship will start 5 October 2026. Funding Notes PhD Studentship provides: an annual tax-free stipend of £21,416, increasing to £21,991 over the four years; tuition fees at home UK rates only; consumables; and generous travel allowance. International fees are not covered. International students applying for the Studentship must provide evidence by the date of interview that they are able to finance the fee top-up required to the international fee level. References Aberdeen Cardiovascular & Diabetes Centre https://www.abdn.ac.uk/acdc/ Dr. Nimesh Mody https://www.abdn.ac.uk/people/n.mody Mahmood, S., (2025) https://doi.org/10.1113/EP092535 Oliver, H., (2023) https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-023-04598-2 Thompson, D., (2023) https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-30759-w Thompson D, (2017) https://doi.org/10.1042/CS20171066.

Overview Supervisors: Dr Emma Watson Emma.watson@leicester.ac.uk Professor James Burton Jb343@leicester.ac.uk Project description: Sarcopenia, characterised by a loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass, is increasingly recognised as a major complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD)[1]. Individuals receiving haemodialysis (HD) experience particularly high rates of muscle wasting and functional decline, contributing to reduced quality of life, increased hospitalisation and premature mortality[2]. Estimates suggest that sarcopenia affects approximately 28–40% of patients with advanced CKD, highlighting the scale of this clinical problem[3-5]. Despite its clinical importance, we know little about the underling causes of sarcopenia in the HD population, or have any validated treatment options. The NIHR-funded STIM-HD study (a multi-centre RCT) is investigating the efficacy of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) as a treatment for sarcopenia in HD patients. This PhD project will utilise skeletal muscle biopsies collected as part of this trial to investigate potential mechanisms of muscle wasting in this population, and the effect of the intervention upon muscle phenotype. The first component of the PhD will focus on characterising the prevalence and clinical manifestations of sarcopenia in haemodialysis patients within the STIM-HD cohort. Using clinical data collected from this study which includes muscle strength, muscle mass, physical function, body composition and patient-reported outcomes, this work will provide a detailed description of muscle impairment in this population and explore relationships between sarcopenia and symptoms such as fatigue, reduced physical performance and quality of life. The second component of the PhD will compare the molecular phenotype of skeletal muscle of patients receiving HD to a healthy control population. This will involve measures of fibre size, fibre type, mitochondrial function and changes to the muscle transcriptome and proteome. This will allow for the identification of dysregulated molecular pathways involved in muscle atrophy, regeneration, inflammation and metabolic regulation. The third component of the PhD will investigate the effect of the NMES intervention within muscle biopsy samples collected from the STIM-HD study. It will examine changes to muscle fibre size, fibre type, mitochondrial number and structure and to the transcriptome and proteome. Together, these complementary approaches will provide one of the most comprehensive molecular characterisations of skeletal muscle in haemodialysis patients to date. The findings will generate new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying sarcopenia in CKD and may identify novel therapeutic targets to improve muscle health and physical function in this vulnerable population. The project will provide the successful student with multidisciplinary training in clinical research, skeletal muscle biology, multi-omics data analysis and advanced imaging techniques, while contributing to a major NIHR-funded clinical trial. References: 1. Moorthi, R.N. and K.G. Avin, Clinical relevance of sarcopenia in chronic kidney disease. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens, 2017. 26(3): p. 219-228. 2. Zicarelli, M., et al., Comprehensive Insights into Sarcopenia in Dialysis Patients: Mechanisms, Assessment, and Therapeutic Approaches. Medicina (Kaunas), 2025. 61(3). 3. John, S.G., et al., Natural history of skeletal muscle mass changes in chronic kidney disease stage 4 and 5 patients: an observational study. PLoS One, 2013. 8(5): p. e65372. 4. Shu, X., et al., Diagnosis, prevalence, and mortality of sarcopenia in dialysis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle, 2022. 13(1): p. 145-158. 5. Wathanavasin, W., et al., Prevalence of Sarcopenia and Its Impact on Cardiovascular Events and Mortality among Dialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients, 2022. 14(19). Please refer to the funding and How to Apply sections below before applying.

About the role A Research Fellow position is available within the group of Dr Leandro Castellano to undertake and lead a research programme investigating miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks as potential targets for immunotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer. The postholder will be expected to design and deliver independent experimental studies, generating robust and high-quality data to support peer-reviewed publications, future funding applications, and dissemination at both internal seminars and national and international scientific meetings. In addition to research activities, the role will include the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate project students, as well as contributions to the wider academic activities of the School, including teaching, public engagement, and the development of a supportive research culture. The successful candidate will be embedded within a highly collaborative environment, with access to the Sussex RNA Research Centre and the Sussex Cancer Research Centre, providing opportunities to engage with a broad network of researchers working across RNA biology, cancer biology, and cancer immunology. About you The successful candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology, with an interest in cancer biology and immunology. You will contribute to the application of advanced molecular and cellular approaches to identify and characterise novel miRNAs involved in tumour immune evasion. The project will involve the use of CRISPR-based genome editing, the culture and manipulation of cancer cell lines, and a range of in vitro and in vivo experimental techniques. These include, but are not limited to, flow cytometry, immunoblotting, RT–qPCR, and RNA immunoprecipitation. Experience with, or willingness to develop expertise in, these methodologies will be essential. You should be able to work both independently and collaboratively, demonstrating strong organisational and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to generate high-quality, reproducible data. Prior experience in RNA biology, cancer research, or immunological assays would be advantageous. A proactive approach to research, together with good communication skills, will be important for contributing effectively to the wider research environment. About our School In the School of Life Sciences we strive to understand the mechanisms that drive biological and chemical processes and to develop innovative and diverse approaches to enhance human health, technology and the environment. We undertake multidisciplinary research, teaching and engagement across a wide range of subjects, from Chemistry through Cellular and Molecular Biosciences to Conservation Biology. The School comprises five Departments: Biochemistry & Biomedicine, Genome Damage and Stability Centre, Neuroscience, Ecology & Evolution and Chemistry. We also house the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre which works to deliver the bench-to-bedside translation of our discoveries. The breadth and depth of our cutting-edge research and innovative teaching practice is delivered by a diverse community who work across boundaries to deliver excellence, engage with real world problems and produce impact. We pride ourselves on our world-leading research and have a strong research economy, with approximately 50% of our income stemming from research and an active grant portfolio of over £50 million. We host or form part of three University Centres of Excellence: the Genome Damage and Stability Centre, Sussex Neuroscience and Sussex Sustainability Research Programme. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, 90.6 % of our Biological Sciences outputs and 84.8% of our Chemistry outputs were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. We are proud that in both areas, 100% of our Impact cases were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. The School is committed to the University’s core values of kindness, integrity, inclusion, collaboration and courage. We believe that equality, diversity and inclusion is everyone’s responsibility and aim to provide a friendly and supportive environment for all who work, study and visit the School of Life Sciences. Please find further information regarding the School of Life Sciences on our website. The School of Life Sciences is proud to hold a Silver Athena Swan Award. Why work here Our university is situated off the A27, next to the beautiful South Downs where you will enjoy everything that our 150-acre campus has to offer. We are accessible by public transport; Falmer train station is a five-minute walk to campus and several bus stops are located within campus. We also have dedicated cycling paths and encourage our staff to use these with our offering of a cycle to work scheme. Sussex is a renowned, multi-accredited, research-led International University and this is only possible because of the people that work here. Whether you are a member of Faculty, part of a Professional Services team or a Student, it’s our people that make us great and we want you to be part of that. Find out more about our reward and benefits package. Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion. Further Key Information Please contact Leandro Castellano (l.castellano@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries. The University is committed to equality and valuing diversity, and applications are particularly welcomed from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine and Mathematics (STEMM) at Sussex. The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Eligibility Visa Sponsorship Queries: This role has been assigned an eligible SOC code and meets the salary requirements for Skilled Worker Sponsorship if full time and appointed at Grade 7.4. Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page for further information about Visa Sponsorship. Please note that this position may be subject to ATAS clearance if you require visa sponsorship. The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK. Apply Now

Overview Supervisors: Professor Athanasios Thanos Saratzis Dr Tom Withers Professor Charlotte Edwardson Project:  Peripheral artery disease (PAD) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are two of the deadliest artery health problems worldwide. Two in ten people over 65 have PAD and one in a hundred have AAA worldwide in most countries, including the UK. Those with PAD or AAA have the highest-risk of heart-attacks, strokes, dementia, leg-amputations, and mental-health problems, amongst people with established cardiovascular disease. Certain medications, exercise, and better diet are strongly recommended to prevent these problems. Unfortunately, though, the vast majority of people with PAD or AAA are not treated with the right medications or offered support to change their lifestyle. This is the main challenge PAD or AAA sufferers face when it comes to their healthcare, in the UK and globally. This PhD studentship will help address this as part of the wider CIRCULIFE study. The final objectives of the PhD will be developed between the successful applicant and supervisory team (Professor Saratzis (NIHR Research Professor of Vascular Surgery), Dr Withers (Associate Professor of Behaviour Change and Vascular Sciences) and Professor Edwardson (Professor in Sedentary Behaviour and Health)). The PhD will aim to develop an intervention which aims to support those with PAD and or AAA to live a healthy life. Smoking, diet, lack of exercise, high blood-pressure are some of the main issues that lead to people getting PAD or AAA. Identical medications and lifestyle help are therefore, advised for both conditions. The research group the successful applicant will be joining has previously developed two relevant interventions one for AAA the CRISP intervention (Withers et al. 2024) and one for PAD the CHABLIS intervention (Watson et al., 2022). These interventions will be used as the starting point for the development of the CIRCULIFE intervention with input from patients and healthcare professionals. This studentship is an opportunity for the successful applicant to gain experience in the development of a complex behaviour change intervention in both secondary and primary care. References: Withers TM, Greaves CJ, Bown MJ et al. A feasibility study of the CRISP intervention; a cardiovascular risk reduction intervention in patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm [version 2; peer review: 2 approved, 2 approved with reservations, 1 not approved]. NIHR Open Res 2024, 4:34 (https://doi.org/10.3310/nihropenres.13596.2) Watson E, Bridgwood B, Saha P, Bown M, Benson R, Lawrence V, Le Boutillier C, Lasserson D, Messeder S, Saratzis A. A Community and Hospital cAre Bundle to improve the medical treatment of severe cLaudIcation and critical limb iSchaemia (CHABLIS). NIHR Open Res. 2022 Nov 28;2:58. doi: 10.3310/nihropenres.13341.1. PMID: 37881303; PMCID: PMC10593312. Informal enquires are welcome, please contact: Professor Athanasios Thanos Saratzis; as875@leicester.ac.uk & Dr Tom Withers; tmw24@leicester.ac.uk Funding NIHR Studentship provides: 3 years UK tuition fees* 3 years stipend which for 2206/7 will be £21,805 pa *International applicants are welcome to apply. However, they must be able to demonstrate they can fund the difference between UK and overseas fees.  For 2026/7 this will be £19,012 per year of study.  Visa, NHS charges and travel costs must also be met by the student. Entry requirements Must have at least a UK 2:1 or overseas equivalent in one of the following: psychology, nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, sport science or be able to demonstrate that they have received teaching in health promotion. Applications will be considered from those who have not yet graduated from their current degree but they must of completed their degree by September 2026. University of Leicester English language requirements apply. Informal enquiries Project enquiries to Professor Athanasios Thanos Saratzis; as875@leicester.ac.uk & Dr Tom Withers; tmw24@leicester.ac.uk Application enquiries to pgrapply@le.ac.uk How to apply How to apply please use the Apply Link at the bottom of the page and select September 2026. With your application, please include: CV Personal statement explaining your interest in the project, your experience and why we should consider you Degree Certificates and Transcripts of study already completed and if possible transcript to date of study currently being undertaken Evidence of English language proficiency if applicable In the reference section please enter the contact details of your two academic referees in the boxes provided or upload letters of reference if already available. Project supervisors are not able to act as referee In the funding section please specify CVS Saratzis – Withers Include the project supervisor’s name and project title under the proposal section. (A proposal is not required). Notes Applications will be considered after the closing date. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview. Unsuccessful candidates will be informed by email. Eligibility UK and International applicants may apply. International applicants please refer to the funding section.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION Primary supervisor – Dr Alper Akay(opens in a new window) This PhD project will investigate how RNA modifications influence the activity of topoisomerase I (TOP1), a crucial enzyme that regulates DNA supercoiling during replication and transcription. Using C. elegans genetics, advanced RNA biology techniques, and industrial biochemistry training with Inspiralis Ltd., the student will investigate how RNAs and their modifications affect topoisomerase activity during C. elegans nervous system development. This multidisciplinary project provides advanced training in molecular genetics, genomics, and translational biotechnology, equipping the student for careers in academia or industry while addressing fundamental questions in RNA biology and health. We offer a multidisciplinary and supportive research environment involving UEA, where the project will be based in Dr Alper Akay’s group (www.theakaylab.com(opens in a new window)) in collaboration with Earlham Institute (Conrad Nieduszynski – https://www.earlham.ac.uk/profile/conrad-nieduszynski(opens in a new window)) and Inspiralis Ltd. (https://www.inspiralis.com(opens in a new window)). The student will receive comprehensive support to learn diverse techniques and engage with both national and international laboratories working on RNA modifications. They will attend conferences at both national and international levels. The student will benefit from internal and external mentorship and career development support. Our RNA (epi)genetics laboratory, funded by a prestigious UK Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellowship, provides generous resources and advanced instrumentation. This project is particularly suitable for students interested in RNA biology, biochemistry, and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2026 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP CASE students undertake a three to 18-month placement with the non-academic partner during their study. The placement offers experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 30 April 2026. Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/(opens in a new window). Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. Please read our application guidance to see our programme specific requirements, including proforma Research and Personal Statements: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/how-to-apply/application-steps/(opens in a new window) To maximise accessibility and attract students from underrepresented groups to our programme we have introduced bespoke templates for applicant Personal and Research statements which will enable every applicant to fully represent themselves through providing suitable examples and evidence. These forms are on the NRPDTP website and must be used for these sections of the application form. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). FUNDING This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD CASE studentship with Inspiralis Limited. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2025/6 stipend rate: £20,780), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship. REFERENCES Bhola, M., Abe, K., Orozco, P., Rahnamoun, H., Avila-Lopez, P., Taylor, E., Muhammad, N., Liu, B., Patel, P., Marko, J. F., Starner, A. C., He, C., Nostrand, E. L. V., Mondragón, A. & Lauberth, S. M. RNA interacts with topoisomerase I to adjust DNA topology. Molecular Cell 84, 3192-3208.e11 (2024). Cha, D. S., Hollis, S. E., Datla, U. S., Lee, S., Ryu, J., Jung, H. R., Kim, E., Kim, K., Lee, M., Li, C. & Lee, M.-H. Differential subcellular localization of DNA topoisomerase-1 isoforms and their roles during Caenorhabditis elegans development. Gene Expression Patterns 12, 189–195 (2012). Shen, A., Hencel, K., Parker, M. T., Scott, R., Skukan, R., Adesina, A. S., Metheringham, C. L., Miska, E. A., Nam, Y., Haerty, W., Simpson, G. G. & Akay, A. U6 snRNA m6A modification is required for accurate and efficient splicing of C. elegans and human pre-mRNAs. Nucleic Acids Research gkae447 (2024). doi:10.1093/nar/gkae447 Vicente, A. M., Hencel, K., Schicktanz, J., Hammann, C., Akay, A. & Kaiser, S. NAIL-MS Elucidates Crucial tRNA U34 Modifications in Response to Heat Stress across Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes. Journal of Molecular Biology 169228 (2025). doi:10.1016/j.jmb.2025.169228 van Delft, P., Akay, A., Huber, S. M., Bueschl, C., Rudolph, K. L. M., Di Domenico, T., Schuhmacher, R., Miska, E. A. & Balasubramanian, S. The Profile and Dynamics of RNA Modifications in Animals. Chembiochem 18, 979–984 (2017). Apply Now