About the Project
We are looking for a student to join our Cancer Epidemiology Research Group. We have a dynamic team with extensive experience in the field of cancer pharmacoepidemiology, including a vast network of international collaborators. With this project, the student will gain experience in pharmacoepidemiology methods, data analysis, systematic reviews as well as other important skills (e.g. scientific writing) and mentorship. Students are encouraged to present to national and international audiences and to work with international collaborators.
Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) is common in older men, affecting about 40% over 50 and is often treated with one of two medications: finasteride and dutasteride (known as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors), which reduce testosterone levels. An increasing number of cancers have been associated with sex hormones, including melanoma and gastrointestinal cancers, however little is known on how these medications may influence their development.
This project will use routinely collected health data from general practice, prescription records and cancer registries to investigate whether finasteride\dutasteride influence cancer risk, as well as other health outcomes (diabetes, osteoporosis etc.).
Applicants should have a degree in a health related subject (epidemiology, pharmacy, biomedical science etc.) or a quantitative subject (maths or statistics).
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Candidates should have or expect to obtain a 2:1 or higher Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant biomedical or life sciences subject.
English Language
Candidates applying from countries where the first language is not English should produce evidence of their competence through a qualification such as IELTS or TOEFL score.
The minimum recommended score for the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Science is:
• IELTS score of 6.0 with not less than 5.5 in each of the four component elements of listening, reading, speaking and writing taken within the last 2 years;
• TOEFL score of 80+ (internet basted test), taken within the last 2 years, with minimum component scores of; Listening 17, Reading 18, Speaking 20, Writing 17);
• A valid Certificate of Proficiency in English grade A or B;
• A valid Certificate of Advanced English grade A; or
• A first or upper second class honours degree from a university based in the UK, Republic of Ireland or other suitably quality assured location in a country deemed by the UK Border Agency to be majority English speaking.
For a list of English Language qualifications also accepted by the School and University please see the following link:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/International/International-students/Applying/English-language-requirements/#English
INTO Queen’s English Language Courses offers both pre-sessional and in-sessional courses in English for academic purposes and study skills. Courses vary in length and full information can be obtained at: https://www.qub.ac.uk/International/International-students/Applying/University-Preparation-Courses/INTOEnglishlanguagecoursesatQueens/
Funding Notes
*FUNDING CONFIRMED – Department for the Economy (DfE) Award*
Eligibility for both fees (£4,327 for 2019/20, 2020/21 TBC) and maintenance (£15,009 for 2019/20, 2020/21 TBC) depends on the applicants being either an ordinary UK resident or those EU residents who have lived permanently in the UK for the 3 years immediately preceding the start of the studentship.
Non UK residents who hold EU residency may also apply but if successful may receive fees only.
For further details re eligibility criteria (including academic, citizenship and residency criteria) please click on the following link: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/student-finance-postgraduate-studentships-terms-and-conditions
References
Please visit the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Centre for Public Health, website for further details about the Centre:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/CentreforPublicHealth/
When applying, please choose 'MEDICINE' as your subject area/School.