Exploring the implications of analysing time-to-event outcomes as binary in meta-analysis

One of three full-time MRC-funded PhD studentships available at the MRC Clinical Trials Unit at University College London (UCL) in the Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology (ICTM - https://www.ucl.ac.uk/clinical-trials-and-methodology/), commencing between July 2018 and September 2018 (by agreement).
You can find more information about each project at https://www.ucl.ac.uk/clinical-trials-and-methodology/education/phd/current-studentships

Project
A meta-analysis combines evidence from a set of similar studies, using data extracted for a suitable effect measure. When combining data from trials evaluating time-to-event outcomes such as overall survival, the most appropriate effect measure is the hazard ratio. However, time-to-event outcomes are commonly dichotomised and analysed as binary outcomes in meta-analysis, using effect measures such as the risk ratio or odds ratio. This project is focused on exploring the implications of analysing time-to-event outcomes as binary in meta-analysis. Investigations will include large-scale analysis of a collection of published meta-analyses extracted from Cochrane reviews, detailed exploration of case study meta-analyses held by the MRC CTU at UCL, and simulation studies. The aim of this project is to provide information and guidance to researchers carrying out meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes.

This project will all allow the student to develop skills in the analysis of data in medical research, and in the methodology of clinical trials. Brief details of each project are provided at the end of this advert and further details of each are available from Dr Andrew Copas – e-mail [Email Address Removed]. Dr Copas is also very happy to discuss projects with potential applicants, and to answer any queries about studying at the Institute.

You will join the group of PhD students within the ICTM at UCL. You will register for full-time MPhil/PhD study at UCL, and will benefit from the range of training provided through UCL.

The essential and desirable criteria you will have are as follows

Essential
• Have (or will have completed by September 2018) an MSc in a field relevant to the preferred research project, or equivalent experience together with a BSc in a quantitative discipline.
• Experience in statistical programming and use of statistical software such as Stata, to the level required by the preferred research project
• Good communication skills
• Interest in preferred research project, with some understanding of the issues it addresses
• Understanding of the principles of clinical trials, medical statistics, research methods, epidemiology and meta-analysis if relevant to the preferred project
• Clear articulation of the reasons to wish to undertake a PhD
• Ability to work independently and manage own time

Desirable
• Work experience in statistics or medical research
• Publication record appropriate to work experience

Under research council regulations all candidates are also required to have been resident in the UK for the past three years and thereby qualify for home fees status. More details on eligibility can be found on the MRC website: http://www.mrc.ac.uk/skills-careers/studentships/studentship-guidance/student-eligibility-requirements/

How to apply
The application requires
• your CV including contact details of two referees, and
• a letter explaining why you wish to study for a PhD in the ICTM at UCL and how you meet the essential and desirable criteria listed above.

To apply, please contact [Email Address Removed] or [Email Address Removed] to receive further details of the process.

In your letter you may express a preference for one of the above listed projects, and briefly explain your preference. If you wish alternatively to propose your own project then details of the project should be provided with your letter. Candidates are welcome to discuss any project ideas and supervisor recommendations with Dr Copas.

Please note that successful applicants will also be required to apply for MPhil/PhD admission via the UCL online application system.

For shortlisted candidates there will be an opportunity to discuss the nature of each project at interview.

Closing Date: 13th July 2018, 17:00 BST.