Early prediction of Gestational Diabetes

The aims and objectives of the PhD project include:

• Updated literature systematic review on novel risk factors in Gestational Diabetes
• What is the predictive ability of early pregnancy HbA1c of Gestational Diabetes?
• Qualitative study on the feasibility of point of care biomarkers in predicting Gestational Diabetes

The project will consist of 3 interlinked sub-projects:

• Analysis of HbA1c using the PRiDE biobank. PRiDE is an MRC funded longitudinal cohort study of women from early pregnancy in two ethnic groups. PRiDE is the biggest early pregnancy cohort involving more than 4500 participants
• Systematic review and primary research of novel biomarkers which can be used on its own or in combination with other clinical parameters (as a composite biomarker)
• Qualitative study of the feasibility and acceptability of point of care biomarkers in early pregnancy to accurately predict Gestational Diabetes.

The successful candidate will have a fantastic opportunity to work within an established team which conducts studies in the UK, India, Kenya and Malaysia under the leadership of Prof P Saravanan, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School. He will be the primary supervisor for the student. In addition to the supervisor, the team is multidisciplinary which consists of Associate Professor in Obstetrics, NIHR Lecturers in Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Fellow, Senior Research Fellow in Statistics, PhD students, and clinical research staff. It also works closely with the NHS Innovation award winning clinical team, for which Prof P Saravanan is the research lead.

Availability of pilot data from PRiDE study will enable the student to initiate the clinical research work as soon as he/she starts the studentship. Given the comprehensive nature of the team, the student will have a fantastic learning environment within the team. The project is translational, this will also benefit the student to develop into a clinically oriented academic. The student will also benefit from the supervisor’s international link through his 2 MRC funded study (STRiDE: Gestational Diabetes in India and Kenya; MAGIC: Gestational Diabetes in Malaysia). This will enable ample opportunity for the student to develop into a translational research interested academic as well as personal development both during and at the end of the studentship.

The successful candidate will be expected to start by 2nd January 2018 and will be located at Warwick Medical School, Gibbet Hill, University of Warwick. The clinical research part will be based mainly at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, where the PRiDE Biobank is located.

Eligibility: UK or EU candidates with a 1st or 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent). Master’s degree in health sciences related subjects is desirable. The studentship includes full fees for the successful candidate along with a tax-free maintenance allowance in line with Research Council UK standard stipend. We are looking for motivated, self-directed, candidates with good interpersonal skills with abilities to strive to deliver excellence in research.

The closing date for applications is mid-night Sunday 29th October 2017. Interviews will be held on the Friday 10th November 2017 at the University of Warwick.

Please contact Prof Ponnusamy Saravanan for further information: [Email Address Removed]

To formally apply, please send a copy of your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a one page personal statement at [Email Address Removed] clearly stating the studentship you are applying for.