Molecular analysis of TERT gene promoter mutations in tongue cancer

Background:

Activation of telomerase is a hallmark of cancer and is aided in some tumours by activating mutations in the promoter of the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene, TERT.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue is a serious disease even its early stages and we have detected TERT gene promoter mutations in 83% of dysplasia making them potential non-invasive detectors of early stage disease in saliva or blood.

Aims:

- Test for TERT promoter mutations in pre-malignant oral samples with different progression outcomes.

- Develop sensitive tests to identify TERT promoter mutations in liquid biopsies.

How to apply:

For more information regarding the project, please contact Dr A. Kang ([email protected]).

Applications should be submitted through the Queen Mary application system: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects/dentistry.html

Please indicate the project title and supervisor in the ‘Research Degree Programmes - Additional Questions’ section of the application.

Alongside the application form, please send the following supporting documents:
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts
• Proof of English language ability for overseas applicants from non-English speaking countries
• A one-side A4 statement of purpose. This should set out your previous academic or other experience relevant to the proposed research; why you wish to undertake this research at QMUL; your previous research or professional training and what further training you think you will need to complete a PhD; and what ethical issues you will need to consider in undertaking this research.
• Two references. At least one reference must be from an academic referee who is in a position to comment on the standard of your academic work and suitability for postgraduate level study. Where appropriate, a second referee can provide comment on your professional experience.

Please contact Charlotte Royle ([email protected]) with any queries about the application process.