Parental Occupation and Childhood Cancer - PHD Project 2004 

We are looking to recruit a UK/EU student who would be interested in a 3-year full time PhD project, beginning in August/September 2004.  The aim of this epidemiological study will be to identify whether parental chemical exposures are associated with the risk of developing of childhood cancer.  Data from the UK Children's Cancer Study (UKCCS) the largest population-based investigation of the aetiology of childhood cancer in the UK will be used.  Information reported by parents at interview is available for approximately 3,000 children with cancer and over 7,000 controls.  A full occupational history was taken from both mothers and fathers including reported details of chemical exposures.  Specific jobs held by parents have been investigated and now a unique opportunity is presented for exploration and analysis of the data on reported chemical exposures.  The project would carefully address the issue of time period of exposure and the cumulative effects of exposure.  

A good first degree in science subject is essential, together with good written/oral communication skills.  A Masters degree in environmental or occupational health, epidemiology or statistics would be desirable.

The PhD would be registered with the University of Leeds and supervised by Dr Tricia McKinney (Reader in Paediatric Epidemiology) in collaboration with Professor Eve Roman (Professor of Epidemiology) at the University of York.  The project will be based at the Paediatric Epidemiology Group on the University of Leeds campus at 32 Hyde Terrace Leeds.

Academic fees at the UK rate are covered and a maintenance grant is available in the amount of £11,000.00 per annum.

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 14 April 2004 

If you are interested please email:  [log in to unmask], or contact Mrs Sheila Jones on 0113 343 4842 for an application form.