Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation used to treat depression in adults. Despite appoximately 2 decades of established clinical research demonstrating the safety and efficacy of this treatment in this aged group, studies on its use in youth (<18 years old) are limited. In this project, we will use a preclinical model of adolescent mood disorders to investigate the neurobiological and behavioural outcomes of clinical rTMS parameters in developmental contexts. We plan to employ the use of advanced neuroscience techniques such as genetic modification, mutiphoton imaging, MRI imaging and optogenetic manipulation to investigate and characterise the neurobiological mechanisms underlying rTMS in the developing brain and how these relate to behavioural outcomes. Findings from this work will help build the evidence base for rTMS in youth applications and inform our translational clinical studies.

Please contact Jamie Beros in the first instance- jamie.beros@uwa.edu.au

We are looking for highly motivated students with a background in neuroscience. Students should have a developed understanding of neuroscience at an honours or masters equivalent level that includes neurophysiology, neuroplasticity and neurodevelopment. Demonstrated experience and a strong willingness to work with preclinical models is favoured. Students will be trained in the relevant experimental techniques but will also be expected to lead their project and work well in a larger team setting.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge. 

Visit the course webpage for full details of this course including admission requirements, course rules and the relevant CRICOS code/s.