PhD Neuroscience

University of Manchester

Research in the Division of Neuroscience aims to understand the development and function of the nervous system, and to develop better treatments for neurological disorders. Around 20 groups focus their research on different, but complimentary, aspects of nervous system function. This extends from how neural circuits are organised, how circuits process sensory information, plan motor actions, store memories, and achieve cognitive function.We also investigate how these networks become dysfunctional in clinical disorders. Through state-of-the-art techniques such as multi-channel electrophysiological recording, optogenetics, neuroimaging, neurogenetics and computational modelling, all of which are established in Manchester, we have powerful tools at our disposal. We also exploit and integrate a wide range of model systems: from neuronal cell culture, Drosophila , zebrafish, rodents and human brain tissue. Our major research themes currently include: Role of critical periods in developing circuits; Coding of sensory signals; Memory and learning; Phototransduction & circadian biology; Neuroinflammation; The neurobiological basis of, and novel treatments for, significant brain diseases (e.g. Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, blindness, stroke, and epilepsy).