PhD student position: Understanding neural underpinnings of cognitive dysfunctions in neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders and developing personalized interventions (11/2024)

The 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11DS) provides an important framework for studying the neurobiological roots
of cognitive impairments in neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders. Individuals with 22q11DS have an increased
risk of developing conditions such as schizophrenia, with cognitive dysfunctions often emerging early as central
features. These deficits tend to progress over time, significantly impacting functional outcomes and remaining only
partially responsive to current pharmacological treatments.
At the DIPLab, we have been conducting research on 22q11DS since 2001, following one of the largest longitudinal
cohorts of children and adolescents with the syndrome. Our research combines state-of-the-art neuroimaging
techniques—including structural and functional MRI, diffusion-weighted imaging, and 7T MRI—with high-density
EEG and detailed neurocognitive and clinical evaluations. Additionally, we are exploring non-invasive brain
stimulation as a potential intervention.
This PhD project bridges findings from LgDel+/- mouse models of 22q11DS with human studies to advance our
understanding of the mechanisms driving cognitive impairments. The aims are twofold: to uncover the neurobiology
underlying cognitive deficits in individuals with 22q11DS and to identify neural targets that could guide the
development of interventions to improve cognitive outcomes.
More details: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7265338627344281600/