PhD Study : Advanced polymeric systems for minimally-invasive sampling of epigenetic and biomarker profiling for periodontal chronic wounds/Chronic wound biofluid sampling and analysis

Summary

In the last 10 years, epigenetic dysfunction has been associated with all major disease areas including infection and chronic wound management. The study of heritable changes in gene expression has become one of the fastest growing sectors of healthcare research and it is estimated that the global epigenetic market is expected to reach $22 Billion USD by 2025, with diagnostic applications across all major disease areas.

This project will look at developing novel diagnostic methods for minimally-invasive fluid sampling, to facilitate miRNA, related biomarkers, and epigenetic profiling in chronic wounds, such as periodontal disease (PD). PD is a common condition affecting the tissue and ligaments surrounding the teeth and is reported to affect >50% of the global population. Untreated, it can lead to gum inflammation, infection, and tooth loss. Small volumes of fluid, called gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) collect in the gaps, called pockets between the teeth and gums. Current GCF sampling techniques, such as micro-capillary pipetting and Perio-Paper® sampling, are not used routinely in practice owing to significant costs, variability in processing, potential for tissue damage, and the disruption of the healing process. Implementation of a non-invasive diagnostic device that could overcome the issues of GCF volume and handling difficulty, will facilitate earlier diagnosis and improved treatment outcomes in PD.

Underlying aim

To design and develop novel polymeric systems for the dection and quantitation of miRNA and biomarkers of inflammation in chronic wounds, such as periodontal disease.

Specific objectives/Methodology

Systematically develop a library of polymeric materials for capture of miRNA & related biomarkers

Fabricate prototype devices with industry scalable techniques e.g. cast manufacture & 3D printing

Establish appropriate physicochemical tests and define target product characteristics

Fully characterise prototype physicochemical characteristics in vitro

Optimise and elucidate absorption/adsorption and desorption processes

Requisite experience

Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.

MPharm or MSc, experience of pharmaceutical formulation, analysis or working with medical devices.

References

Demir, E.F. et al. (2018) Synthesis and characterisation of albumin imprinted polymeric hydrogel membranes for proteomic studies. J Biomat Sci 29(18) 2218-2236

Kinane, D.F., Stathopoulou, P.G. & Papapanou, P.N. (2017) Periodotnal diseases. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 3 (17038)

Aliminana-Pastor, P.J., Boronat-Catala, M. & Mico-Martinez, P. (2019) Epigenetics and periodontics: A systematic review. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 24(5) 1698-4447.

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

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.

• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.
• Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

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.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• 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. Further information on cost of living