Characterisation of ZFP36L1, a novel breast cancer predisposition gene

In most instances of breast cancer, the causes are not well understood; germline pathogenic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 account for only a small proportion of cases. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of breast cancer have identified more than 100 germline single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with increased risk of the disease. However, the underlying mechanisms of susceptibility attributed to SNPs at most loci are not understood. Identification and characterisation of the gene targets of breast cancer predisposition loci will illuminate breast cancer biology and provide insight into opportunities for preventative and therapeutic interventions.

We have previously identified, via GWAS, a breast cancer predisposition locus mapping to 14q24.1 for which the likely target gene is the RNA-binding protein, ZFP36L1. Recent data from our group and others also suggests that ZFP36L1 is a somatically mutated cancer driver gene in a small proportion of breast cancer cases. This project will determine, using multiple complementary approaches, the RNA targets of ZFP36L1 to provide insight into the biological pathways that are perturbed by regulatory SNPs at the 14q24.1 locus. Genetic perturbation methods, including CRISPR interference, will be used to explore oncogenic phenotypes that results from ZFP36L1 abrogation.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop knowledge in cancer genetics and will acquire a wide range of skills in genetic epidemiology, bioinformatics, next generation sequencing (NGS), molecular pathology, immunohistochemistry and gene knockdown (CRISPRi).

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

The English Language Unit (ELU) 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 from the ELU http://www.qub.ac.uk/tefl/