Understanding the microbiome in rheumatoid arthritis

Seeking highly motivated early career researchers for a PhD studentship in human microbiome at the Department of Twin Research & Genetic Epidemiology, King’s College London. The Department has close links with Divisional and other Research Departments within King’s College, as well as many external Research Organisations.

The TwinsUK cohort study of 13,000 twins and they are probably the most intensively studied group in the world, with a wide range of omic technologies already measured (www.twinsuk.ac.uk). Our group of over 70 produces over 80 papers per year and is one of the UK leading centres in microbiome research, having measured gut microbiota on over 2000 twins. We have already published on genetic influences on gut microbes and on food preferences in twins. We will enlarge the UK twin collection with samples by post from European twins discordant for RA, in collaboration with other twin registers.

The successful candidates should have at least a BSc or equivalent in the areas of biological or mathematical science. The project’s main focus will be on the microbiome and an understanding of immunology will be an advantage. The post will involve considerable statistical analyses. The position will be based at King’s College London on the St Thomas’ Campus.

For further information on how to apply and full details, please visit www.kcl.ac.uk/health/study/studentships/div-studentships/gmm/steves-williams.aspx