A fully funded 3-year PhD studentship is available to work with Prof Shuzo Sakata at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.

Our group has been investigating state-dependent and cell-type-specific information processing in the brain by employing a diverse array of advanced techniques, including in vivo high-density electrophysiological recording, calcium imaging, optogenetics, chemogenetics and deep learning-based behavioural analysis. 

In this PhD project, we aim to explore how Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology impacts state-dependent and cell-type-specific brain activity and investigate the potential of neuromodulation to ameliorate abnormal cell-type-specific dynamics in an AD mouse model.

The project comprises two key phases: first, using a multi-fibre array imaging system, we will assess how amyloid pathology alters neuronal and non-neuronal calcium dynamics across multiple brain regions and sleep-wake cycles in an AD mouse model. Second, we will examine the effects of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques on aberrant cell-type-specific calcium dynamics as well as amyloid pathology. 

In collaboration with Dr Yashar Moshfeghi from Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, this project will leverage cutting-edge machine learning approaches for data analysis. Additionally, you will be part of the group in the newly launched Centre for Neurotechnology at the University of Strathclyde, fostering interdisciplinary interactions with researchers in systems neuroscience, neurophotonics and AI science.