EASTBIO PhD: Shaping Motion – Astrocyte Specialization Motor Control Networks

University of St Andrews
· School of Psychology and Neuroscience

Scotland, United Kingdom

16 November 2026; no exact official cutoff time was verified.

About This Opportunity

This EASTBIO PhD investigates how astrocytes specialize within neural circuits that control movement, linking glial-cell diversity to spinal motor-network function.

Astrocytes are active components of neural circuits, but their properties may vary according to the motor networks in which they operate. This project will study astrocyte specialization in movement-related circuitry, particularly in the spinal cord. Experimental approaches can include genetic models, electrophysiology, pharmacology, live imaging, immunofluorescence and high-resolution microscopy. By comparing glial properties across defined circuit contexts, the project aims to determine whether specialized astrocyte states are functionally matched to surrounding neuronal networks and how those states contribute to motor control.

Level PhD

Time Commitment Full-time

Duration Four years

Programme EASTBIO BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership

Field Shaping Motion – Astrocyte Specialization Within Motor Control Networks

Organization Type University

Funding & Compensation

Amount Scholarship

Funding Type Scholarship

Requirements

Education

Applicants must meet EASTBIO and University of St Andrews doctoral-entry requirements for a relevant discipline.

Experience

Technical Skills Electrophysiology Pharmacology Live imaging Immunofluorescence Microscopy Genetic models

General Skills Independent research Interdisciplinary collaboration Scientific communication