The regulation of potential cancer driver genes in colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer develops via a number of quite well characterised molecular pathways. In a recent molecular classification study of 53 patient tumour samples, we identified 17 common (>10%) focal genomic deletions and 11 common focal amplifications (Burghel et al, PLoS One 2013). Based on these results, we have carried out some bioinformatics analysis and identified a number of candidate cancer driver genes involved in the cellular response to DNA damage. The aims of this project are to validate the candidates by use of over-expression and knock-down of the candidate genes in colon cancer cell line models, to examine the effects of such changes on cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis and other hallmarks of cancer. The long-term aim is to work towards new therapeutic targets for colon cancer. The project provides a broad range of techniques in a lively molecular biology lab. The student will have full access to the University's Doctoral Development Programme.

Supervisors: Prof. Angela Cox and Dr. Spencer Collis, Sheffield Cancer Research Centre, Dept. of Oncology, University of Sheffield

This is a 3-year PhD funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research with stipend starting at £13,863 per annum.

Start date: as soon as possible.

Interested applicants should complete the University of Sheffield online application form at:
http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/apply/applying, clearly stating the above supervisor and department details.
In addition, please send an up to date CV with references and a personal statement (1 page or less) giving details of why you want to do this project to [Email Address Removed]
Please also use this email for informal enquiries.

Closing date for applications: 31st October 2014