UK: PhD Studentship PhD Studentship Funded by the Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Research Trust

Applications are invited for a PhD studentshipfunded by the Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Research Trust toinvestigate the molecular pathogenesis of an important type ofchildhood brain tumour known as supratentorial PrimitiveNeuroectodermal Tumours (stPNET).

The current World Health Organisation classification of PrimitiveNeuroectodermal Tumours (PNETs) groups together infratentorial andsupratentorial tumours implying a common origin. However, a number ofobservations, clinical and scientific, question this assumption. Whilstthe outcome for children with infratentorial PNETs, more commonly knownas medulloblastomas, has improved in recent years, the management ofsupratentorial PNETs remains much more difficult and patients generallyhave a poor prognosis.

Scientific evidence from a recent gene expression study stronglysuggests that stPNETS are molecularly distinct from theirinfratentorial counterparts. This project aims to extend thisobservation by performing a global analysis of genomic imbalances andgene expression in a stPNETs using latest technology. The comprehensivegenomic and expression dataset will be used to facilitate theidentification of:
● prognostic and diagnostic markers
● pathways involved in the pathogenesis of stPNET
● novel targets for therapy and to
● elucidate tumour origin

The student will work within a stimulating environment in the expandingChildren's Brain Tumour Research Centre at Queen's Medical Centre, TheUniversity of Nottingham. This studentship will provide full trainingin a range of molecular biology techniques. There will also beopportunities to present results at conferences in the UK, Ireland andabroad.

The successful student will be registered for a PhD (MPhil in the firstinstance) in the School of Human Development. This studentship isavailable immediately for a period of three years and provides apostgraduate stipend.

Students should preferably hold, or expect to obtain, a first or uppersecond class degree (or equivalent) in genetics or related sciences.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Professor R Grundy, Email: Richard.Grundy@Nottingham.ac.uk.

Applications, with a detailed CV and the names and addresses of threereferees, should be sent to Professor R Grundy, School of HumanDevelopment, D Floor, East Block, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham,NG7 2UH.

Reference:
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/hr/vacancies/studentships.html#Grundy