Clinical: Gastroesophageal reflux in respiratory disease: pathogenic role and improved management

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach contents, such as food and acid pass into the gullet/oesophagus causing heartburn. GERD is very common in patients with lung disease, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis (CF). In some patients with lung disease, reflux can be substantial, leading to concerns that the stomach contents might be passing all the way up the gullet into the lungs (‘aspiration’), causing or worsening the lung disease. Reflux and aspiration can continue to be a problem following lung transplantation. 

The University of Leeds, together with the Mayo Clinic, USA are carrying out an extensive research program to better understand the mechanisms responsible for reflux and possible aspiration in patients with lung diseases and following transplantation. The research program is also examining how reflux relates to the severity of lung disease and its progression, and how best to treat. 

You will be part of an international research team of world experts, clinicians/doctors and scientists from the University of Leeds, Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust (LTHT), and the Mayo Clinic, USA. You will work with patients from clinics at LTHT, perform the oesophageal and pulmonary function tests (after appropriate training), analyze test data acquired from both Leeds and Mayo Clinic, carry out statistical analysis and help prepare both original publications and abstracts to be presented at both national/international conferences. The project is particularly suited to medically qualified doctors, who wish to develop their research portfolio and continue these research interests into their clinical practice, but also to scientists with an interest in clinical research. Particular aspects of this research program will be tailored to whether you are a clinician and/or scientist, with the possibility of us recruiting both a clinician and a scientist. Previous experience, although desirable, not essential.

Techniques associated with this project:

Oesophageal function tests, such as High Resolution Impedance Manometry and 24-hr pH-impedance, and analysis of these tests using the Chicago Criteria (training will be provided). Pulmonary function testing (training will be provided). Depending on whether medically trained and successful registration with the General Medical Council, other techniques may include bronchoscopy, collection of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and sputum. Statistical analysis and preparation of scientific papers for successful publication in international medical journals.

This project is available as part of the International PhD Academy: Medical Research

Eligibility:

You should hold a first degree equivalent to at least a UK upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject.

Candidates whose first language is not English must provide evidence that their English language is sufficient to meet the specific demands of their study. The Faculty of Medicine and Health minimum requirements are:

• British Council IELTS - score of 7.0 overall, with no element less than 6.5
• TOEFL iBT - overall score of 100 with the listening and reading element no less than 22, writing element no less than 23 and the speaking element no less than 24.

How to apply:

Applications can be made at any time. To apply for this project applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application. 

• a full academic CV
• degree certificate and transcripts of marks
• Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)

To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;

• Select PhD in Medicine, Health and Human Disease as your programme of study
• Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert

Any queries regarding the application process should be directed to fmhpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk