Analytical and Applied Biosciences - Investigation of fluoride-related cancers and other diseases.

Analytical and Applied Biosciences - Investigation of fluoride-related cancers and other diseases.

Applicants should use the links provided in each topic or project area to the Research Centres and Research Groups identified, or to the named supervisors for each project, to ensure that their application and proposal fits with the research interests and topics defined in the studentships offered.

Abstract

Fluoride is of nutritional and public health significance and is considered to be essential due to its beneficial role in mineralisation of both teeth and bones. Since topical fluoride helps to prevent dental caries, it is added to drinking water, milk and salt in many countries and included in toothpastes and mouthwashes. In the UK, more than 12% of the population receive fluoridated water and milk supplemented with fluoride is offered to children aged between 3 and 11 years by some education establishments. Although the protective effect of fluoride against dental caries is well established, its influence on bone metabolism is less well defined. It is one of only few known agents that can stimulate bone cell proliferation and increase mineral deposition in cancellous bone. Additionally, the rate of fluoride ingestion, absorption and excretion may be affected by genetic factors. The association of fluoride levels with cancers, such as osteosarcoma, and other diseases is unclear. Osteosarcoma is a form of bone cancer where a link to water fluoride levels has been reported. Osteosarcoma is a rare cancer that can occur at any age and has a 5-year survival rate ranging from 77% to just 27% depending on the stage of disease. Genomic studies gave begun to unravel the underlying genetics of osteosarcoma but our knowledge and understanding of the role of fluoride remains unclear. This project will focus on understanding the underlying biology and public health impact of fluoride-related cancers and other diseases.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a good honours degree (2:1 or above) in a relevant discipline. A masters level qualification in a relevant discipline is desirable, but not essential, as well as a demonstrable understanding of the research area. Further details of the expected background may appear in the specific project details. International students will be subject to the standard entry criteria relating to English language ability, ATAS clearance and, when relevant, UK visa requirements and procedures.

How to apply

Please use the Online Application (Funded PHD) application form for the year starting ‘October 2020’. When asked to specify funding select “other” and enter ‘RDS’ and the title of the PhD project that you are applying for. You should ensure that you clearly indicate that you are applying for a Funded Studentship and the title of the topic or project on the proposal that you will need to upload when applying. If you would like to apply for more than one project, you will need to complete a further application form and specify the relevant title for each application to a topic or project. 

Applications for studentships that do not clearly indicate that the application is for a Funded Studentship and state the title of the project applied for on the proposal may mean that your application may not be considered for the appropriate funding. 

For administrative enquiries before or when making your application, contact [Email Address Removed].

After an application has been made, please contact [Email Address Removed]

Select process

All applications received by the closing date will be considered. Successful applicants at the application stage will be shortlisted and contacted to arrange an interview. All interviews will be held online. Unsuccessful applicants will be contacted to confirm that the application will not be progressed. After interview, all interviewed applicants will be contacted to inform them of the outcome. All applicants will be considered for both Fully Funded PhD and Fees-Paid PhD studentships with the decision about the type of studentship offered to a successful candidate made after interviews have taken place. Successful applicants progressing to an offer of a place, to commence in either May or October 2021.

About Teesside

As a Teesside University research student, you will join a growing and dynamic research community, allowing you to share your experiences, insight and inspiration with fellow researchers. You will benefit from our academic expertise, and be supported through a strong programme of research training. You will be offered opportunities and support at each stage of your research degree. Our research is designed to have impact, and to influence policy and practice within our region, the UK and beyond. We work with external organisations to anticipate and respond to research needs, and to put our research into practice in sectors as diverse as the arts, engineering, healthcare and computing. PhD students are encouraged to work with their supervisors to explore the potential impact of their work.

The successful candidate will be expected to participate fully in research group and centre activities, including training sessions and workshops, and will become a member of the University’s wider postgraduate research community. Mentoring and support will be provided for the development of a strong academic and professional CV during the PhD.

Academic enquiries

For academic enquiries, please contact [Email Address Removed].

For administrative enquiries before or when making your application, contact [Email Address Removed].

Key dates

Deadline: 15/02/2021 5:00PM

Interview date: We envisage that interviews will take place in w/c 22 March 2021.

Start date: Successful applicants will be expected to start May or October 2021.