School of Natural Sciences: Funded PhD Scholarship in Developmental Biology Project. Development and regeneration of the nervous system in the cnidarian Hydractinia
Supervisor: Prof Uri Frank
Duration: Funded for 4 years (Structured PhD), full-time.
Project description: Hydractinia is able to regenerate any lost body part including its nervous system. The animal can grow clonally, and possesses remarkable growth plasticity. The project will dissect the molecular mechanisms that control neural differentiation in development and regeneration using advanced molecular/cell biology techniques, microscopy and animal manipulation. It is anticipated that studying regeneration in animals that can regenerate robustly, such as Hydractinia, may provide insight into the general principles underlying regeneration in all animals, and why some, like mammals, have only limited regenerative capabilities. Our lab is located in the new Biosciences building at NUI Galway. This building provides excellent infrastructure and many opportunities to collaborate with members of cognate groups in the broader biomedical sciences.
Stipend: €18,000 per annum & fees for 4 years
Entry Requirements: A First or Upper Second Class BSc (Hons) degree in molecular biology or related area is minimum qualification.
Expected start date: September 2015
How to apply: For further details contact Prof Uri Frank (uri.frank@nuigalway.ie). To apply email letter of interest, explaining why you would like to be considered, full CV, and the contact info for two references to the address above.
Deadline: Review of candidates will commence immediately and continue until the position is filled. Further information is available at http://www.nuigalway.ie/frank