Investigation of microRNA regulation and function in prostate cancer

Summary

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by interacting with messenger RNAs (mRNAs) from genes that encode proteins.

The aberrant expression of miRNAs has been associated with various disease states, including prostate cancer.

There is much hope that microRNA profiling can be a potentially valuable tool for improving the prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of this disease (Ref 1).

However, there remains a significant gap in our knowledge about the role of miRNAs in prostate cancer development.

The functionality of many of these miRNAs remains unknown, so there is still a requirement for studies which can demonstrate experimental validation of miRNA target(s) and a measurable effect on cellular behaviour, in order to elucidate their mode of action.

In our laboratory, we are interested in investigating how specific miRNAs can contribute to the progression of prostate cancer through their regulatory networks (Refs 2-4).

We have identified several miRNAs that remain poorly investigated in relation to prostate cancer and which therefore offer exciting possibility for novel discoveries.

Better understanding of their function will in turn help explore the potential of miRNAs as useful biomarkers and therapeutic targets in prostate cancer (and other diseases).

Our laboratory uses a variety of in vitro, in vivo and in silico models to investigate these phenomena.

The current project will utilise a combination of these methods to identify and investigate miRNAs which play important roles in prostate cancer development.

Skills Required of Applicant
* Good Laboratory skills
* Good oral and written presentation skills
* Good critical thinking and analytical skills
* Good IT skills
* Good work ethic and ability to work independently
* Experience of biostatistics and using statistical packages
* Interest in bioinformatic analysis

Important Information: Applications for more than one PhD studentship are welcome, however if you apply for more than one PhD project within Biomedical Sciences, your first application on the system will be deemed your first-choice preference and further applications will be ordered based on the sequential time of submission.

If you are successfully shortlisted, you will be interviewed only on your first-choice application and ranked accordingly. Those ranked highest will be offered a PhD studentship.

In the situation where you are ranked highly and your first-choice project is already allocated to someone who was ranked higher than you, you may be offered your 2nd or 3rd choice project depending on the availability of this project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000* (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or

• Have settled status, or

• Have pre-settled status, or

• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period