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.
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.
If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.
The University offers the following levels of support:
The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:
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.
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.
Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living
Submission deadline
Friday 7 February 2020
12:00AM
Interview Date
9 to 20 March 2020
Preferred student start date
Mid September 2020