PhD Studentship 2006

University of Leeds
Faculty of Medicine and Health
Academic Unit of Oncology and Haematology
St James’s University Hospital, Leeds

Studentship available from September 2006 for a fixed term of 4 years

Applications are invited for the following research project:

The design and statistical analysis of whole genome association studies: application to melanoma

Supervisors: Dr Jenny Barrett, Prof Tim Bishop and Prof Julia Newton Bishop

This studentship is available in the Genetic Epidemiology Division of the Cancer Research UK Clinical Centre at St James’s University Hospital in Leeds.  The Genetic Epidemiology Division is focused on understanding the contribution of genes to susceptibility to disease, with a particular focus on cancer.  The group includes statistically trained staff and epidemiologists pursuing studies of the genetics of melanoma, bowel cancer and testicular cancer as well as research interviewers actively conducting such studies.  The project builds on the research being conducted into the investigation of genes involved in risk of melanoma skin cancer.  

The Cancer Research UK Clinical Centre at Leeds is based at one of Europe’s largest teaching hospitals, St. James’s University Hospital. The Genetic Epidemiology Group is one of a number of research units which together comprise the Centre - a purpose built facility with the goal of translational medical research. Presently, the Centre contains approximately 70 researchers with interests ranging from the molecular genetics of urological malignancies and melanoma to cell biology and immunology. Since November 2005 the Centre has formed part of the new Institute of Molecular Medicine, Epidemiology and Cancer Research grouped around a new purpose-built building equipped with cutting-edge technologies.

Applicants should have a relevant first degree at a standard of 2:1 or above.  A background in statistics will be necessary for this research; any biological background, including knowledge of genetics, would be advantageous.  Applicants however should have a committed and enthusiastic approach to scientific research.

Further written details of the studentship can be obtained from Professor Tim Bishop [log in to unmask] or Dr Jenny Barrett [log in to unmask] Tel: +44 113 3438637, to whom informal enquiries may also be addressed

Applications should include a full CV and full details of 2 academic referees.  These should be sent to: Sharon Collins, Cancer Research UK Clinical Centre, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7TF (tel 0113 2066949) or emailed to [log in to unmask]

The stipend for 2005/6 is £12337 and the level for 2006/7 will be decided later this year.  Please note that Cancer Research UK do not pay overseas student fees.  Applications for such support will be required to be made separately to this application if appropriate.

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 01st March 2006