MScR – Determining the genetic and circadian basis of bipolar disorder using Drosophila

Circadian rhythms and sleep are evolutionarily conserved from fruit flies (Drosophila) and are fundamental as well as vital to biology and health (Jagannath et al., 2017; Menet and Rosbash, 2011). Bipolar disorder is highly heritable with recent genomic studies identifying a conserved set of underlying genes that are also implicated in circadian rhythm and sleep regulation, which are known to be disrupted in the disorders(Franklin and Dwyer, 2021; Harrison, 2016).

These evolutionarily conserved signalling pathways appear to be regulated by mood stabilising drugs (Logan and McClung, 2016; McCarthy et al., 2016; McCarthy et al., 2012). In this project we will generate fly models mutant for genes associated with bipolar disorder and characterise them for circadian rhythms under different light conditions. In parallel we measure the effect on sleep including measuring sleep stages and sleep deprivation, using standard assays set up in the lab(Buhl et al., 2019; Buhl et al., 2020).

To measure behavioural changes related to mood in these different flies, circadian and sleep states, we will use an affective bias assay we have developed for Drosophila (Deakin et al., 2018). We will validate the model by attempting rescue of behavioural deficits by feeding the flies lithium, valproate and other drugs predicted to correct the molecular defects(Dokucu et al., 2005).

MSc by Research

MSc by Research (MScR) is a 1-year research degree that provides an intensive lab-based training and a preparation for PhD study. You will carry out your studies as part of your research group – like a PhD student does. Towards the end of the year, you write up a thesis on your research and are examined on this. This degree suits students wanting to gain maximum research experience in preparation for PhD applications.

We are keen to recruit a diverse range of students and to ensure our research is open to all. We particularly welcome applications from groups traditionally under-represented in life sciences research. Please check the University webpages for the current tuition fee information. Most MScR projects also require a bench fee. This varies depending on the research and your project supervisor can tell you the bench fee for the project.

How to apply

Before applying, please read carefully the information on the prospectus and make sure you have all the documents listed in the Entry Requirements. PhD Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience Study at Bristol University of Bristol

To apply, follow the link Start your application Study at Bristol University of Bristol and select the programme “Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience (MSc by Research)”.

You can contact Prof. James Hodge at james.hodge@bristol.ac.uk

http://www.bristol.ac.uk/phys-pharm-neuro/people-new/hodge/

If you require assistance with your application, please email fls-pgenquiries@bristol.ac.uk