Characterising the functional homology of drug targets in aquatic animals

Pharmaceutical action is mediated through specific drug targets, and in many cases these targets are highly genetically conserved between humans (the intended recipient) and other 'non-target' species. Many organisms are exposed to human pharmaceuticals in the environment, and as such their health may be affected. We have identified a number of drug targets that show particularly high levels of genetic conservation (see: EcoDrug.org), but what we don't know is whether this similarity includes conservation of drug action. This studentship will seek to understand this relationship.

Focussing on pharmaceuticals that act on the central nervous system, the student will use cutting- edge genetic, microscopic imaging, behavioural tracking and molecular techniques to assess the effects of neuroactive drugs principally in, but not necessarily limited to, vertebrate (e.g. zebrafish) and invertebrate (e.g. Daphnia magna) species. This work will help increase our understanding of whether these drugs are likely to cause an effect in the aquatic environment.

The student will join a large and vibrant research team at Exeter and will work as part of a wider European project focussed on understanding the effects of pharmaceuticals in the environment. The student will also have access to exceptional facilities and expertise at Exeter, and will receive extensive training in ecotoxicology, bioinformatics, molecular biology, imaging. The student will also benefit from working with industry experts from AstraZeneca, thus greatly enhancing their long term career prospects.