Applications are sought for candidates with backgrounds in Animal/Veterinary Science, Biological Sciences or Veterinary Medicine with an interest in laboratory work and clinical research in companion animal species for the above MScR position jointly offered by the University of Edinburgh and Scotland's Rural College (SRUC). Applicants should have (or for those graduating in Summer 2023 be predicted to have) a 2:1 degree or higher in a biological subject or possess a degree in Veterinary Medicine. The successful applicant will be based at SRUC at the Easter Bush Campus (on the outskirts of Edinburgh) and registered for a MScR at the University of Edinburgh
Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a common, chronic skin condition in dogs characterised by pruritus and inflammation associated with production of IgE against environmental allergens in genetically predisposed dogs. CAD affects the health and welfare of affected dogs, and is frustrating and financially costly for dog owners. Atopic dogs with CAD commonly have secondary staphylococcal skin infections (pyoderma), with some dogs particularly susceptible to recurrent or chronic infections. Although there are several effective treatments to relieve clinical signs and pruritus of CAD and associated pyoderma, the complexity of genetic and environmental mechanisms underlying disease have yet to be elucidated.
Low serum IgA is associated with CAD and secondary pyoderma in German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs). Genetic studies have revealed up to 35 loci associated with IgA deficiency (IgAD), but most were conducted before the rapid increase in popularity of small and medium breeds and crosses such as French Bulldogs, Cavapoos and Cockapoos. These breeds and crosses are susceptible to CAD but data on IgA is lacking.
This project aims to characterise IgA in these breeds and crossbreeds to determine if there is an association between CAD, pyoderma and IgA levels. The project will also study gene polymorphisms associated with IgAD in GSDs and humans to determine if these are relevant to small and medium dog breeds with CAD.
Application Process:
Application instructions can be found on the SRUC website Postgraduate Research Opportunities
- Download and complete the Equal opportunities survey and note the completion reference
- Download and complete the SRUC Application form
- Download the Academic Reference Request and send to two referees requesting they submit to [Email Address Removed] by the closing date.
Send your application including the following to [Email Address Removed]:
- Completed Application form quoting REF SRUC/FS/MScR
- Academic qualifications
- English Language Qualification (if applicable)
For additional information or discuss the project please contact Dr Francesca Soutter ([Email Address Removed]).