PhD Studentship: Translational Models for Chronic Pain Susceptibility
Investigate neural networks of emotional flexibility to predict susceptibility to chronic pain in a 4-year MRC-funded PhD.
Best for:Best for aspiring biomedical researchers with a background in psychology, neuroscience, or biological sciences interested in pain mechanisms.
Overview
The University of Exeter invites applications for a fully funded four-year PhD studentship through the GW4 BioMed3 Doctoral Landscape Programme, starting in October 2027. The successful candidate will investigate how emotional vulnerability contributes to the development of chronic pain, integrating translational models of emotional flexibility with neural network analysis and pain phenotypes. Working within the Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, the researcher will join a multi-institution network offering comprehensive biomedical training and support. Applicants are expected to conduct independent research, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying fear and anxiety comorbidities in pain conditions.
What you'll do
- Develop and apply translational models of emotional flexibility to study chronic pain susceptibility.
- Correlate neural network data with specific pain phenotypes to identify underlying mechanisms.
- Investigate comorbidities between fear/anxiety disorders and pain conditions.
- Participate in advanced research training and professional development activities provided by the GW4 BioMed3 programme.
- Collaborate with researchers across the partner institutions within the GW4 BioMed3 consortium.
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or equivalent in a relevant biomedical, psychological, or biological discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Background in biomedical sciences, psychology, biological sciences, or computer sciences
- Strong analytical and research design capabilities
- Familiarity with quantitative data analysis and interpretation
- Open to UK and international students
- Meet standard UKRI studentship eligibility criteria
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-21
Interested applicants must review the available projects within the GW4 BioMed3 programme and submit their application through the university's designated funding application portal. Ensure all required academic transcripts and supporting documents are attached prior to the deadline.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
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