Biomolecular taphonomy: the use of biomolecules to estimate post-mortem interval for forensic applications (RDF19/HLS/AS/PROCOPIO)

The estimation of the time since death (or post-mortem interval, PMI) is one of the most debated topics in forensic anthropology and, despite the great number of studies conducted on this subject, it still suffers from poor precision and reliability, in particular in cases of advanced decay and/or dry remains. Actual methodologies used to estimate PMI mostly rely on the subjective evaluation of the morphological variations of the carcass, resulting in poor accuracy and in low predictive power. This study aims at evaluating the biomolecular changes involved with the taphonomic process, both within the decomposing body and in the surrounding environment, to ultimately look for new potential molecular biomarkers able to allow a better estimation of the PMI. The research will focus on proteomic variations within the surviving tissues, such as teeth or bones, and on the characterisation of their metabolomic/lipidomic profiles. The study will also focus on insects, mites and microorganisms eventually present on the carcass or in the surrounding burial environment to ultimately build a model for the estimation of PMI that will use the newly discovered biomarkers to improve actual knowledge in this field. Different variables and parameters affecting the taphonomic processes, such as intrinsic and/or extrinsic variables, will be also taken into account to allow for a better understanding of the decomposition phenomena and on the effect that each variable can have on the proposed biomarker/s for PMI estimation.

Eligibility and How to Apply:
Please note eligibility requirement:
• Academic excellence of the proposed student i.e. 2:1 (or equivalent GPA from non-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]); or a Masters (preference for Merit or above); or APEL evidence of substantial practitioner achievement.
• Appropriate IELTS score, if required.
• Applicants cannot apply for this funding if currently engaged in Doctoral study at Northumbria or elsewhere.

For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please note: All applications must include a covering letter (up to 1000 words maximum) including why you are interested in this PhD, a summary of the relevant experience you can bring to this project and of your understanding of this subject area with relevant references (beyond the information already provided in the advert).

Deadline for applications: Friday 25 January 2019

Start Date: 1 October 2019

Northumbria University is an equal opportunities provider and in welcoming applications for studentships from all sectors of the community we strongly encourage applications from women and under-represented groups.

Faculty: Health and Life Sciences
Department: Applied Sciences
Principal Supervisor: Dr Noemi Procopio