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			PhD Studentship in Neural Networks
		Neuroendocrine Research Group, Department of Physiology, 
			University of Edinburgh,UK


	MODELLING THE EFFECTS OF SYNAPTIC INPUT ON A BURST-GENERATING NEURONE

	This BBSRC special committee studentship will involve the construction
of mathematical models of oxytocin neurones, assessing the properties of the
model by computer simulation and analytical techniques where possible, and
planning, in conjunction with electrophysiologists, the experimental testing of
models, e.g. by devising critical experiments to discriminate between
hypotheses.

	Random synaptic input is an important element of the environment of
oxytocin neurones, which have important physiological functions related to
their two modes of firing.  Tonic activity is involved in regulation of osmotic
pressure of the blood, whereas bursts of intense activity coincide with milk
ejections in lactating females, and contractions during parturition.
Mathematical models will be constructed at various levels of complexity,
starting with a development of the simple leaky integrator model,  via well
known models of bursting neurones, to more biophysically based models. Our
general philosophy is to use models which are as simple as possible while still
explaining in broad terms the experimental findings. This facilitates the use
of analytical techniques to underpin simulation studies of more realistic
models. Models are only further elaborated when the simple models are clearly
inadequate. The studentship will be supervised by Professor Gareth Leng in the
Physiology Department, Edinburgh, and David Brown in the Biomathematics
Laboratory, Babraham Institute, Cambridge and in collaboration with
neuroendocrinologists and other mathematicians in Edinburgh.    

	This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in mathematical work on
a neuronal system for which there is much experimental data, which has
properties which are interesting from a physiological and mathematical point of
view, and which has been little modelled so far.

		Applicants should have, or be likely to get, a good degree in a
quantitative subject (e.g. mathematics, physics), preferably with an interest
in biology.   Maintenance grant of about #6,800 per annum (for UK residents).
The studentship will start in October 1998, and run for for 3 years. The
project will involve some travel between Edinburgh and Cambridge, so as to
facilitate regular contact with the mathematicians and biologists at the two
sites.   Further information from Gareth Leng (0131 650 2869, email
gareth.leng at ed.ac.uk) or David Brown (01223 832312 ext 224, email
david.brown at bbsrc.ac.uk). Applications in the form of a CV (detailing academic
performance so far) and names and addresses of two referees to Professor Gareth
Leng, Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Teviot
Place, Edinburgh, or David Brown, Laboratory of Biomathematics, Babraham
Institute, Cambridge CB2 4AT as soon as possible.