BioMed DTP PhD Studentship: Embark on a transformative research journey with the MRC GW4 BioMed DTP PhD studentship for the 2024/25 entry. Join a dynamic team of supervisors from the University of Exeter and Cardiff University and explore the fascinating world of cell communication in gastric cancer. This four-year fully-funded program offers exceptional opportunities for UK and international students. Don’t miss the application deadline of November 1, 2023, to be part of groundbreaking research in biological sciences.
Study Area:
- Research Theme: Infection, Immunity, Antimicrobial Resistance & Repair
- Focus: Cell communication in gastric cancer
Scholarship Description:
MRC GW4 BioMed DTP PhD Studentship in Biological Sciences – 2024/25 Entry
Gastric cancer is a pressing global health concern, often diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in limited treatment options and poor survival rates. This studentship aims to unravel the mysteries of cell communication in gastric cancer with a specific focus on the Wnt signaling network. Misregulated Wnt signaling is common in gastrointestinal cancers, including gastric cancer, but understanding its function in this context remains limited.
The project’s primary objective is to characterize signaling cytonemes involved in the extracellular transport of Wnt proteins during gastric cancer. Cytonemes are signaling protrusions that transport Wnt signals between distant cells, and recent research has shown their significance in cancer. This project will employ cutting-edge cancer cell assays, xenograft technology, and advanced imaging techniques to investigate how Wnt signaling influences cellular behavior, gene expression, differentiation, proliferation, invasion, and migration within the gastric tumor microenvironment.
The ultimate goal is to gain insights into how Wnt signal distribution is regulated in gastric cancer, which could pave the way for more effective and targeted treatment strategies. Funding for this studentship includes UK tuition fees and a Doctoral Stipend matching the UK Research Council National Minimum, along with additional research training and support funding of up to £5,000 per annum.
Eligibility:
- Residency: Open to both UK and International applicants.
- Academic criteria: Applicants should have a first or upper second-class UK honours degree or an equivalent qualification in relevant areas of medical sciences, computing, mathematics, or the physical sciences. Applicants with a lower second class may be considered if they hold a Master’s degree.
- English requirements: Non-native English speakers must meet the English language requirements of the hosting university.
Required Documents: Applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:
- Application form
- Transcripts and academic records
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- GRE scores (if applicable)
- English language proficiency test scores (if applicable)
Please refer to the specific project requirements on the university’s website for detailed information.
How to Apply: Applications open on September 4, 2023, and close at 5:00 pm on November 1, 2023. To initiate the application process, applicants must secure an offer of funding from the DTP. You can apply for up to two projects and submit one application per candidate. Complete the online application form provided on the GW4 BioMed2 MRC DTP website by the specified deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by December 18, 2023, with virtual interviews scheduled for January 24 and 25, 2024.
Last Date: Application Deadline: 01 November 2023
Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in biological sciences and be part of the solution to better understand and treat gastric cancer. For inquiries, please contact GW4BioMed@cardiff.ac.uk, and for project-related queries, reach out to the respective supervisors listed on the project descriptions available on our website.
