Reference Code: CL068

Details:

Name of supervisors
Dr A Tyson-Capper, Institute of Cellular Medicine 

Dr H Gautrey, Institute of Cellular Medicine

Sponsor
The RVI Breast Cancer Appeal

Duration of the award
Three year PhD

Project description
Continued delineation of cancer biology at the genetic and molecular level shows that an ever increasing number of proteins, with contrasting roles in tumour biology, are produced as a result of alternative pre-mRNA splicing. The focus of this PhD will be to explore specific cancer-associated splicing changes in selected genes that potentially affect progression of breast cancer(s) and influence drug sensitivity and resistance.

A wide range of molecular and cellular biology techniques including gene knockdowns and antisense technologies to switch splice-site selection, laser capture, in-situ hybridisation, Q-PCR and cell culture assays will be employed.

Value of the award and eligibility
The award covers tuition fees at the UK/EU rate and an annual stipend of £13,726 (2013/2014).

Person specification
Candidates must have a first-class or upper-second class BSc Honours Degree and a Masters Degree (MRes*, Distinction or Merit) in a relevant subject, preferably with a strong background in  molecular biology . 

*Students currently undertaking the MRes Programme 2012/2013 are eligible to apply.

How to apply
You must complete the University’s postgraduate application form via the ‘Apply’ button below. Select ‘PhD in the Faculty of Medical Sciences – Cellular Medicine’ as the programme of study. Once you have selected the programme, please insert the studentship reference number CL068. 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 CL068.

You should also send your covering letter and CV by e-mail to:
Alison.Tyson-Capper@ncl.ac.uk.

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:
Dr A Tyson-Capper
Email: alison.tyson-capper@ncl.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 222 7156