Massey University 2022 PhD Scholarships in HDAC4 Tetramerisation and Neuronal Dysfunction, New Zealand

Our research programme is focused on understanding the molecular processes that are required for formation and storage of memory, and how their disruption can lead to neurological disease. In recent years it has become clear that abnormal accumulation of the histone deacetylase HDAC4 in neuronal nuclei is associated with both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, and in our *Drosophila* model, increased nuclear HDAC4 also impairs neuronal development and memory. When increased in abundance in nuclei, HDAC4 forms into aggregates, which is mediated through an N-terminal *a*-helix. We have determined that mutation of amino acids predicted to prevent tetramerisation both prevents aggregate formation and reverses any developmental deficits. 

These preliminary data strongly suggest that the aggregates are responsible for the impairments, but it is not clear what causes these aggregates to form, their composition and what it is that makes them pathogenic.

This project seeks to answer these questions. Approaches include determining the impact of specific mutations on the formation of the N-terminal *a*-helix and tetramer of recombinant HDAC4 protein via a variety of biochemical techniques under the guidance of co-supervisor Assoc Prof Andrew Sutherland-Smith. It will also include testing strategies to ameliorate aggregation-induced impairments in *Drosophila* models of neurodegeneration.

• Table of Content
• About Massey University
• Massey University PhD Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of Massey University PhD Scholarship
• Massey University PhD Scholarship Courses
• Requirements for Massey University PhD Scholarship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About Massey University

Massey University (M?ori: Te Kunenga ki P?rehuroa) is a university based in ??lm?rst?n N?rth, N?w Z??l?nd, with significant branches in ?lb?ny and Wellington. Massey University has approximately 35,000 students, 17,000 of whom are extramural or distance-learning students, making it New Zealand's second largest university when not counting international students. Research is undertaken on all three campuses, and more than 3,000 international students from over 100 countries study at the university.... continue reading

Massey University PhD Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of Massey University PhD Scholarship

Massey University will provide an award amount of $105,000 plus tuition fees for three years only for successful candidates for a PhD degree.

Massey University PhD Scholarship Courses

• Bio-Chemistry

Requirements for Massey University PhD Scholarship Qualification

• Applicants should have a relevant postgraduate degree relevant to the above-described research areas and be highly motivated and able to work as part of a team. Experience in molecular biology is required, and a neuroscience and Drosophila genetics background would be advantageous. Due to the current border restrictions, this opportunity is only available to applicants already in New Zealand.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Include the following with your application:

• a written letter of interest which includes your previous research interests and experience
• your CV
• complete academic transcripts
• contact details of three academic referees