Computational Modelling of Astrocytes in Brain Health and Disease

Summary

Astrocytes are now recognised as active regulators of brain activity, shaping synaptic communication, network stability, and metabolic support.

When astrocytes malfunction, they are linked to neurological conditions from epilepsy to Alzheimer's, yet how they influence neuronal health remains only partially understood.

Understanding these mechanisms is crucial not only for neuroscience and medicine, but also for NeuroAI- the bidirectional exchange between neuroscience and artificial intelligence, where astrocyte-inspired mechanisms could enhance AI robustness and efficiency.

Our team has a strong record in astrocyte-neuron interaction modelling, published in Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience, PLoS Computational Biology, Neurocomputing, and IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, establishing a strong platform for advancing this field.

Building on this record, this PhD project will:

• Build computational models of astrocyte-neuron interactions, incorporating calcium signalling, neurotransmitter dynamics, and metabolic support.
• Explore how astrocytic regulation shapes neural dynamics in healthy and disrupted states, investigating disease (epilepsy, neurodegeneration) and cognition (learning, memory), with scope flexible to the student's interests.
• Collaborate with experimental researchers to ground predictions in biological evidence.
• Explore NeuroAI applications, translating astrocytic principles into bio-inspired AI architectures.
• The candidate will have the opportunity to:
• Train in cutting-edge computational neuroscience and NeuroAI.
• Collaborate with leading experimental and clinical teams.
• Publish in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.
• Develop skills transferable to academia, healthcare innovation, and neurotechnology.

We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate from a background in biological sciences, computing, mathematics, physics, or engineering.

A strong interest in neuroscience and a willingness to work across disciplines are essential; prior experience in modelling or coding is desirable but not required.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%
• For VCRS Awards, Masters at 75%
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000 approximately per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available to home applicants, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.