About the Project
We have a vacancy for a PhD studentship in the Musculoskeletal Research Group. This group undertakes research into factors that regulate vitamin D metabolism and the maintenance of a healthy musculoskeletal system as well as those involved in variety of pathologies.
Vitamin metabolism is central to bone and mineral metabolism and plays a pivotal role in placental function. Our research has shown that abnormalities in vitamin D metabolism may be involved in the development of pre-eclampsia and pregnancy induced hypercalcemia. The mechanisms are poorly understood. We hypothesize that polymorphisms in genes regulating vitamin D metabolism may be involved.
Objectives of the PhD:
The focus of this PhD will be to investigate vitamin D metabolism in women who develop pre-eclampsia and pregnancy induced hypercalcemia. The project will initially utilise existing data, samples (case-control study) derived from a large, observational population representative study amongst pregnant women in Sweden (collaboration Gothenburg University). In the second phase, patients will be recruited through the NNUH for an in-depth study of vitamin D metabolism and genetic profiling.
The student will carry out laboratory analyses (biochemistry and genotyping), data processing and analyses, and in the second phase, conduct a study with human participants/patients. It is expected that the student will prepare and publish at least 2 high impact scientific papers.
Person specification:
Applicants should have an interest in endocrinology, genetics, laboratory work, statistical analyses, and should have an affinity for working with patients or study participants. Comprehensive training in these disciplines and other required skills will be provided.
Applicants should have, or be expecting to receive, a 2.1 Hons degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, e.g. biochemistry, physiology, medicine.
Successful completion of this PhD is anticipated to open opportunities to pursue a career in medical and health sciences, public health or bio-technical industry.
Further Details:
Programme: PhD
Mode of study: Full time
Start Date: October 2018
Entry Requirements: Applicants should have, or be expecting to receive, a 2.1 Hons degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, e.g. biochemistry, physiology, medicine. The standard minimum entry requirement is 2:1.
For more information on the supervisor for this project, please visit:
https://www.uea.ac.uk/medicine/people/profile/i-schoenmakers
Funding Notes
This PhD project is offered on a self-funding basis. It is open to applicants with funding or those applying to funding sources. Details of tuition fees can be found at http://www.uea.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/fees-and-funding
A bench fee may also payable on top of the tuition fee to cover specialist equipment or laboratory costs required for the research. The amount charged annually will vary considerably depending on the nature of the project and applicants should contact the primary supervisor for further information about the fee associated with the project.
References
Vitamin D Status during Pregnancy in a Multi-Ethnic Population-Representative Swedish Cohort.
Bärebring L, Schoenmakers I, Glantz A, Hulthén L, Jagner Å, Ellis J, Bärebring M, Bullarbo M, Augustin H. Nutrients. 2016 Oct 22;8(10). pii: E655.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27782070
Vitamin D expenditure is not altered in pregnancy and lactation despite changes in vitamin D metabolite concentrations.
Jones KS, Assar S, Prentice A, Schoenmakers I.Sci Rep. 2016 May 25;6:26795.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27222109
Preeclampsia and Blood Pressure Trajectory during Pregnancy in Relation to Vitamin D Status.
Bärebring L, Bullarbo M, Glantz A, Leu Agelii M, Jagner Å, Ellis J, Hulthén L, Schoenmakers I, Augustin H. PLoS One. 2016 Mar 29;11(3):e0152198
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27022948
Dysregulation of maternal and placental vitamin D metabolism in preeclampsia.
Tamblyn JA, Susarla R, Jenkinson C, Jeffery LE, Ohizua O, Chun RF, Chan SY, Kilby MD, Hewison M.
Placenta. 2017 Feb;50:70-77.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28161064
Continue with Facebook
