We have been awarded a PhD studentship to study mathematical modelling of
the spread of Hepatitis C amongst injecting drug users in Scotland,
sipervised by Dr. David Greenhalgh,  University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
and  Dr. Sharon Hutchinson (Health Protection Scotland (HPS)).

The project aims to develop mathematical models for the spread of  hepatitis
C virus (HCV) amongst  injecting drug users (IDUs). The models will use
differential equations in the first instance. Models for the spread of HIV
amongst IDUs will be adapted to HCV. We will concentrate on designing models
to examine the effect of HCV prevention measures, such as the provision of
needles/syringes and other injecting equipment, methadone treatment and
educational interventions. Heterogeneity in injecting risk behaviours among
IDUs will be explored in the model. If time permits we would also explore
individual-based stochastic Monte-Carlo simulation models to compare the
results with the deterministic models and the effect of friendship networks
and geographical dispersion  on the spread of HCV. A very important part of
this project is the link with HPS and we would use epidemiological data on
HCV from HPS to estimate the parameters in our models as well as guidance
from HPS staff (Dr. Hutchinson and Professor Goldberg) in the model
formulation. We would also aim to link in with the detailed numerical
computer simulation models of the spread of HCV used by HPS.

This studentship is funded at standard EPSRC rates  (£12,923 p.a. for
2008/9),  plus home fees. The preferred start date is 1st October 2008, but
other start dates may be possible. It is suitable for UK or EU-eligible
students (fees and stipend) or other EU students (fees only) with a good or
expected good (2i or above or equivalent) Honours degree in Mathematics,
Statistics or other numerate subject.

For further information see the attached pdf file or please contact Dr.
David Greenhalgh, Department of Statistics and Modelling Science, University
of Strathclyde, Livingstone Tower, 26 Richmond Street, Glasgow G1 1XH,
Scotland, UK, Tel:- +44-141-552-4400 Ext 3653, Fax +44-141-552-2079,
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