PhD: Thalamo-cortical changes in Dementia with Lewy Bodies

University of Southampton Alzheimer’s Society DTC PhD explores thalamo cortical connectivity and cognitive fluctuations in DLB using MRI and sensors.

Cognitive fluctuations, often coinciding with variations in alertness and attention, are highly prevalent yet poorly understood core clinical features of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Emerging evidence indicates that dopaminergic and noradrenergic ascending fibres contribute significantly to these fluctuations. These fibres are gated through the thalamus, which continuously updates cortical regions to modulate awareness and attention levels. The reticular nucleus, a key thalamic region, plays a crucial role in regulating cortical awareness and attention. However, no studies have investigated thalamo-cortical changes in relation to cognitive fluctuations in DLB, with previous research focusing exclusively on cortical changes related to these symptoms.

This Alzheimer’s Society funded project addresses a critical knowledge gap by investigating how thalamo-cortical changes in DLB potentially explain cognitive fluctuation symptomology. We hypothesise that specific alterations in thalamo-cortical connectivity, particularly involving the reticular nucleus, underlie the characteristic cognitive fluctuations observed in people with DLB.

The studentship will employ a multi-modal approach combining: (1) comprehensive cognitive evaluations conducted both online and in-person; (2) advanced neuroimaging analyses using structural and functional MRI, including our novel DTI-based thalamic nuclei parcellation approach; and (3) innovative sensor technologies to measure real-world alertness levels in DLB. As part of the studentship, we will be conducting two studies: i) a retrospective study, analysing a large, existing neuroimaging DLB dataset to establish thalamo-cortical changes; ii) a prospective, pilot study (DLB; n=20) involving multi-modal cognitive, neuroimaging and sensor measurements, to establish the relationship between thalamo-cortical changes and everyday cognitive fluctuations in DLB.

This research is highly timely given our limited understanding of cognitive fluctuations in DLB and the urgent clinical need for effective symptom management strategies. Current therapeutic approaches remain inadequate due to insufficient mechanistic understanding of these debilitating symptoms.

The project outcomes will significantly advance our understanding of cognitive fluctuations in DLB, potentially informing novel therapeutic targets and improving clinical management. By combining cutting-edge technologies with patient-centred research, this work promises meaningful benefits for people living with DLB and their families.

Our supervisory team brings complementary expertise in cognition, neuroimaging, sensor technologies, and DLB research. This multidisciplinary environment will enable the student to develop their own research specialisation while benefiting from comprehensive training and support. Candidates will receive training in the methods used but should demonstrate strong interest in neuroimaging and cognition, as these form the project’s foundation.

The successful candidate is likely to have the following qualifications:

• A 1^stor 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline and/or second degree with a related Masters.

Administrative contact and how to apply:

Please complete the University’s online application form, which you can find at

https://student-selfservice.soton.ac.uk/BNNRPROD/bzsksrch.P_Login?pos=7201&majr=7201&term=202627

You should enter Michael Hornberger​ as your proposed supervisor. To support your application provide an academic CV (including contact details of two referees), official academic transcripts and a personal statement (outlining your suitability for the studentship, what you hope to achieve from the PhD and your research experience to date).

Commencement date 21st September 2026

Informal enquiries relating to the project or candidate suitability should be directed to Michael Hornberger M.Hornberger@soton.ac.uk