IAHS STUDENTSHIP: Utilising UK-wide registry data (rheumatology and/or antimicrobial resistance)

The Epidemiology Group at the University of Aberdeen hosts a number of UK-wide drug registries in the field of musculoskeletal disease and infections. To date, we have recruited and collected clinical and patient-reported data from over 3500 patients with axial spondyloarthritis or psoriatic arthritis. We are also currently in the process of setting up a new register which will recruit patients from all over the UK commencing novel anti-microbial therapies.

An exciting opportunity exists for a PhD student to analyse some of the data from one (or more than one) of the registries. The precise data collection varies between registries, but each collects a vast amount of data from participants, at multiple timepoints, including information on:

• Symptom history and duration
• Physical measurements
• Comorbidities
• Treatment
• Quality of life; and
• Employment.

The precise direction of the PhD can be tailored to suit the successful candidate’s skills, experience and interest. Thus, the precise research questions will be decided by the candidate, in collaboration with the supervisors and may be clinically focused, for example:

• What is the prognostic value comorbidities, as a predictor of treatment response?
• Can we identify patients early, who are at high risk of leaving work?

Or may have a more of a focus on methodology, for example:

• Are there disparities between physician global and patient reports of disease activity?
• What methods can improve participant recruitment / retention in disease registries?

Environment: The Epidemiology Group is one of the major research groups in the University of Aberdeen’s Institute of Applied Health Sciences. The Group's programme of applied epidemiological research is focused on arthritis and musculoskeletal health but with interest in opioid medications and pain after surgery, and in antimicrobial therapy.

Our epidemiological work seeks to understand mechanisms of disease onset and outcome, this then informs our programme of observational studies and randomised controlled trials on disease management, which in turn feeds into our work on designing, implementing and evaluating health services for patients with these conditions.

Further information: Potential applicants are invited to review the University’s, and specifically the Epidemiology Group’s information pages for students:

• www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research
• www.abdn.ac.uk/iahs/research/epidemiology/information-for-prospective-students-1612.php.

Also, they are strongly encouraged to contact Professor Jones ([Email Address Removed]) for an informal conversation about the studentship. Please do not send your CV or applications directly to Professor Jones or the Epidemiology Group.

Candidates should contact the lead supervisor to discuss the project in advance of submitting an application, as supervisors will be expected to provide a letter of support for suitable applicants.

Candidate Background:

• Applicants should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject. Those with a 2:2 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) may be considered, provided they have (or are expected to achieve) a Distinction or Commendation at master’s level.

We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities, and are committed to having a diverse, inclusive team.

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APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

International applicants are eligible to apply for this studentship but will have to find additional funding to cover the difference between overseas and home fees (approximately £14,000 per annum).

• Formal applications can be completed online: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/pgap/login.php
• You should apply for Applied Health Science (PhD) to ensure your application is passed to the correct team for processing.
• Please clearly note the name of the supervisor and exact project title on the application form. If you do not mention the project title and the supervisor on your application, it will not be considered for the studentship.
• Applicants should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject. Those with a 2:2 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) may be considered, provided they have (or are expected to achieve) a Distinction or Commendation at master’s level.
• Your application must include: A personal statement, an up-to-date copy of your academic CV, and clear copies of your educational certificates and transcripts.
• Please note: you DO NOT need to provide a research proposal with this application
• General application enquiries can be made to [Email Address Removed]