King’s College London
About the Project
Neural circuit development is a precisely orchestrated process where the interplay between excitatory and inhibitory neurons establishes functional network dynamics. Despite significant advances in understanding mature neural circuits, the developmental trajectory of these networks (particularly the role of distinct inhibitory interneuron subtypes) remains poorly understood. This PhD project aims to develop computational models of developing neural circuits, informed by experimental data from mouse models, to elucidate how different cellular components contribute to circuit maturation and the establishment of excitatory-inhibitory (E/I) balance.
The research will focus on creating biologically detailed computational models incorporating multiple cell types, including excitatory pyramidal neurons and three major classes of inhibitory interneurons: parvalbumin-positive (PV+), somatostatin-positive (SOM+), and vasoactive intestinal peptide-positive (VIP+) cells. Using experimental data from developing mouse cortex as constraints, we will model the temporal emergence of cell-type specific connectivity patterns and their impact on network dynamics. Special attention will be paid to how the sequential maturation of different interneuron subtypes shapes circuit development, as each population is known to emerge and integrate into the network at distinct developmental timepoints. The models will be validated against experimental measurements of neural activity patterns, synaptic dynamics, and network oscillations across different developmental stages.
The models will be used to generate testable predictions about how specific disruptions in interneuron development or function could lead to circuit dysfunction, with relevance to conditions such as autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia, where E/I imbalance is implicated. This research has the potential to identify critical developmental windows and cell-type specific interventions that could inform therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders.
How to apply:
Applicants must complete and submit an online admissions application, via the admissions portal by midnight (23:59 GMT), 31/03/2025.
On the ‘Choosing a programme’ page, please select MRC Centre for Developmental Neurobiology Research MPhil/PhD (Full-time).
More information on the department and the programme is available at the departmental prospectus page here: https://devneuro.org/cdn/index.php
In your application, you will be asked to include:
- Academic Transcripts – where applicable, academic transcripts must be submitted with the online admissions application
- Details of your qualifications – you will need to attach copies
- Details of previous employment – please include your CV
- A personal statement describing your interests and why you wish to apply for this project. Please include this as an attachment rather than using the text box.
- Academic References – all admissions applications require two supporting references. If the applicant is relying on their referees to submit a reference directly to the College after they have submitted their admissions application, then the applicant must ensure that (1) their chosen referee is made aware of the funding deadline (i.e. 7 days from application deadline) and (2) that the reference needs to be sent from an institutional email address.
In the Funding section, please tick box 5 and include the following reference: SS-IoPPN-CDN-25
Please note there is no need to complete the Research Proposal section in your application as the project has already been set. You are welcome to email Sadra Sadeh ([email protected]) for more information regarding the project and studentship.
If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Education support team at [email protected].
References must be received by the deadline for the applicant to be eligible. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
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