Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 June 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
Microglia are a central nervous system (CNS) resident cell with multiple functions including protecting the brain from injury, sculpting neuronal circuitry and providing trophic support for other brain cells. A large proportion of microglia exist in close proximity to brain blood vessels and within the last few years there has been increased interest in their function. In particular, recent evidence indicates microglia may influence CNS blood flow and suggests they could also play a role in blood-brain-barrier (BBB) integrity in health and disease. We recently discovered a significant proportion of microglia associated with pericytes, a cell type that exists on the walls of capillaries. We termed these cells pericyte-associated microglia (PEM). Pericytes are contractile cells that exist on the walls of blood vessels and our evidence suggests PEM may indirectly control blood flow via pericytes. Furthermore, we have evidence suggesting PEM number is reduced in Alzheimer's disease, which may lead to a loss of PEM function. To investigate the role of PEM in CBF regulation, this project will first investigate if microglia influence CBF indirectly via pericytes by imaging blood flow in mice using in vivo two-photon microscopy through cranial windows at sites of PEM. To establish if PEM alter CBF in response to stimulation, the project will stimulate CBF using neurovascular coupling. Next, this experiment will be replicated in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD), to determine if PEM function is influenced by AD pathology. This study will uncover novel functions of PEM, which will deepen our understanding of CBF control mechanisms in health, and understand how they break down in AD, potentially opening new avenues of therapeutic development for this debilitating disease.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Experience with animal work
- Experience with immunohistochemistry
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Gary Morris to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 June 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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