Targeting the Neurovascular–Immune Interface to Improve Outcomes After Traumatic Brain Injury

About the research project

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) triggers a complex cascade of vascular and immune disturbances that contribute to long‑term neurological dysfunction. Among the earliest and most influential responders are pericytes and microglia. Although both cell types are central to TBI pathology, their interactions remain poorly understood. Emerging evidence suggests that pericyte dysfunction can profoundly alter microglial behaviour, amplifying neuroinflammation and secondary injury processes. Understanding this neurovascular–immune interface represents an exciting frontier in TBI research with significant therapeutic potential.

This PhD project will investigate how pericytes influence microglial activation and neuroinflammatory signalling following experimental traumatic brain injury. Using established rodent models of brain trauma, the candidate will examine structural and functional changes within the neurovascular unit, characterising pericyte loss or dysfunction, microglial phenotypes, and downstream impacts on BBB permeability and neuronal health. The project will employ advanced histological and imaging approaches—including immunofluorescence, 3D tissue clearing, and confocal microscopy—to map cellular interactions and identify spatiotemporal patterns of injury‑induced change. Complementary molecular analyses (e.g., qPCR, protein quantification, transcript profiling) will provide insight into inflammatory pathways and cell–cell communication mechanisms.

The student will also explore how modulating pericyte function affects microglial responses and overall injury progression. By integrating experimental manipulation with imaging and molecular data, the project aims to determine whether targeting pericytes could shift microglia toward more neuroprotective or reparative states. These findings have the potential to reveal novel therapeutic strategies that address both vascular dysfunction and immune dysregulation—two key drivers of poor outcomes in TBI.

This project is ideally suited to a student with interests in neurotrauma, neuroinflammation, or neurovascular biology. The candidate will join a supportive, multidisciplinary research environment with expertise in rodent models of brain injury, microglial biology, and advanced imaging. They will gain hands‑on experience in experimental neuroscience techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication, preparing them for careers in academic research, biomedical science, or translational neurotherapeutics.

By uncovering the mechanisms through which pericytes shape microglial behaviour after TBI, this PhD project will contribute new knowledge to one of the most challenging and clinically significant areas of brain injury research.

Primary supervisor

Meet Associate Professor Jenna Ziebell

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

• a living allowance stipend funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum for 3.5 years
• a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Selection criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

Completion of a research thesis

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

Previous experience with experimental models of injury

Previous experience with behaviour testing

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Associate Professor Jenna Ziebell to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. In your application:
   • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
   • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ' How to apply ' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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