Reference Code: IA068
Details:
Name of the supervisors
Professor M Herbert, Institute for Ageing and Health (IAH)
Professor J Higgins, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences (ICaMB) (new appointment, will join during 2014)
Dr A Laude, Institute of Cellular Medicine (ICM)
Sponsor
Medical Research Council (MRC)
Duration of the Award
MRes Ageing and Health followed by three year PhD.
Project Description
Female reproductive ageing is characterised by defective segregation of chromosomes during meiosis resulting in either too few or too many chromosomes being retained in the oocyte. The ensuing oocyte aneuploidy underlies the dramatic female age-related increase in the incidence of infertility, miscarriage and birth defects. Thus, the increasing trend for women to delay childbearing has major implications for human reproductive health and for our future demographic structure. Our research programme aims to uncover the underlying causes of aneuploidy in oocytes of older women and to investigate the feasibility of intervention strategies aimed at reducing risk. This project is focussed on investigating changes in oocyte chromosome architecture during female ageing in mouse and human.
Value of the Award and Eligibility
Depending on how you meet the MRC?s eligibility criteria, you may be entitled to a full or a partial award. A full award covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual stipend of ?13,726 (2013/14). A partial award covers fees at the UK/EU rate only.
Person Specification
Candidates should have or expect to achieve a minimum of an upper-second-class honours degree in Biological Sciences or Biophysics. Preferred subjects: Biochemistry, Genetics, Biophysics.
How to Apply
You must apply through the University?s online postgraduate application form selecting ?Master of Research/Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Sciences) ? ageing and health? as the programme of study. Please insert the code IA068 in the studentship/partnership reference field. Only mandatory fields need to be completed (no personal statement required) but you must attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter, quoting the title of the studentship and reference number IA068.
Closing date for Applications
Prompt application is advised as this post is only available until a suitable candidate is appointed.
Further Information
For further details, please contact:
Professor M Herbert
E-mail: mary.herbert@ncl.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 213 8213