Unravelling Neurodevelopmental Disorders through Human Brain Organoids

Are you fascinated by how genetic factors influence disease by disrupting human brain development? Join our innovative research team as we tackle these critical questions using cutting-edge human brain organoid models.

Understanding the biological underpinnings of neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia remains a significant challenge due to their complex genetic and phenotypic diversity. However, copy number variants (CNVs) at the 3q29 locus provide a unique opportunity to unravel this mystery. As one of the strongest known genetic risk factors for schizophrenia, these CNVs affect highly conserved genes essential for brain and cognitive development, making them a powerful tool for understanding disease mechanisms.

This project takes an innovative approach, leveraging stem cell disease modelling to uncover the neuronal defects linked to neurodevelopmental disorders. By combining core stem cell biology, translational research, functional analysis, and multi-omics approaches, we will investigate changes associated with neuropsychiatric disorders using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived models, including 2D neural cultures and 3D cerebral organoids. The research aims to deepen our understanding of disease processes, providing a foundation for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. These discoveries will have far-reaching impacts for clinicians, researchers, and families affected by neuropsychiatric disorders.

Training & Environment

This PhD project offers comprehensive training in advanced methodologies and provides invaluable insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. You will receive personalized mentorship and gain expertise in an innovative and dynamic research environment. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including cell reprogramming, neural differentiation, physiological assessments, and bioengineering tools. These experiences will prepare you for a successful career, whether in academia or industry.

The project will be conducted within the Neuroscience and Mental Health Innovation Institute at Cardiff University, under the supervision of Dr Yasir Syed, you will join a collaborative research group, working alongside three PhD students and a postdoctoral researcher.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking a highly motivated and team-oriented graduate with a strong passion for neurobiology, psychiatry, stem cell research, biotechnology, and disease modelling. Proficiency in cell culture techniques, microscopy, biochemistry, or molecular biology would be an advantage. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to ground-breaking work in translational neuroscience while gaining skills and experience in one of the most exciting and rapidly evolving fields of research. If you are driven by curiosity and eager to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply.

How to apply: 

You can apply online – consideration is automatic on applying for a PhD in Biosciences

Please use our online application service at https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/biosciences-phd-mphil-md  

Please specify that you are applying for this particular project, the supervisor and source of funding.

Information on the application process can be found here  

http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/applying