Quantitative modelling of sleeping brain

Summary

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Projects in this area of research will investigate different aspects of sleep-wake regulation by the brain, role of sleep in the daily brain clearance, and links between sleep and development neurodegenerative disorders.

Supervisor

Dr Svetlana Postnova.

Research location

School of Physics

Synopsis

Why do we sleep and how does the brain transition into this seemingly unconscious state and out of it? How does sleep loss affect our alertness and memory, and why is long-term sleep loss associated with neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease? What do sleep and anaesthesia have in common? Projects in this research area will use quantitative modelling, machine learning, and sophisticated data analysis to address these questions. The recently discovered glymphatic system in the brain, for the first time allows us to build mechanistic models linking sleep, brain clearance and long-term effects of sleep disturbances on the brain health to test hypothesis, make predictions, and develop interventions.

Additional information

This project is elgible for both MPhil and PhD students. Candidates will require quantitative background, e.g., physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science and interest in biological systems.

Most projects involve collaboration with experimentalists and/or clinicians in Australia and overseas. Some of the projects involve collaboration with industry.

HDR Inherent Requirements
In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
Hold a current scuba diving license;
Hold a current Working with Children Check;
Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2986