Fully-funded PhD: To develop methodology to measure Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in the plasma of obstructive sleep apnoea patients

The qualifications, skills, knowledge and experience applicants should have for this project, in addition to our standard entry requirements

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to undertake research exploring obstructive sleep apnoea as a modifiable risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:

Essential qualifications

• Applicants for this PhD must have a first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in neuroscience, biochemistry, bioinformatics, biomedical sciences, or a closely related discipline.
• Candidates with a master’s degree in a relevant subject are strongly encouraged to apply, especially those with research experience in neuroscience or clinical biochemistry.

Technical and research skills

• Experience or demonstrated interest in biochemical techniques, particularly immunoassays (such as ELISA, Western blotting) for biomarker analysis.
• Familiarity with data analysis and statistical methods relevant to biological sciences.
• Basic knowledge or keen interest in bioinformatics, computational biology, or data science approaches.
• Experience or willingness to learn programming languages (such as Python, R) for handling and analysing clinical data.

Desirable skills and experience

• Previous research experience involving clinical or biomarker studies.
• Familiarity with neuroscience, Alzheimer’s disease pathology, or sleep-related disorders.
• Prior exposure to clinical environments or collaborations with healthcare professionals.
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and communication skills.

Additional requirements

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team comprising researchers and clinical practitioners.
• Strong commitment to learning and professional development.
• Fluency in written and spoken English, with good academic writing skills.