Dr M Riggio, Dr C Nile
No more applications being accepted
Self-Funded PhD Students Only
About the Project
The Dental School in collaboration with colleagues at the School of Veterinary Medicine (University of Glasgow) is seeking applications from candidates for a PhD project entitled “Development of novel models to investigate the role of pathogens in the aetiology of canine periodontitis and to test therapeutic interventions”. Applicants must be overseas veterinary, biological sciences or dental graduates, ideally with an interest in veterinary research and must be fully funded (government or personal) to cover tuition fees and bench fees. Some funding is already available from The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which will allow a reduction in the bench fees payable.
Gingivitis and periodontitis are very common clinical problems in small animal practice, with up to 80% of adult dogs affected, and are associated with chronic pain and premature tooth loss. As tooth loss increases with age, this impairs the ability of the animal to feed, with a subsequent negative effect on quality of life. Bacteria undoubtedly play a role in the pathogenesis of disease and the specificity and type of immune response is important in determining the incidence and severity of disease. The bacteria involved in the disease processes are thought to elicit characteristic cytokine responses by activating specific Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Candidate pathogens identified in a previous study in our laboratory will be assessed for their ability to induce a host immune response (activation of TLRs and inflammatory cytokines) within both in vitro cell culture models and an ex vivo rodent mandible model in a 3D culture environment. These model systems will be used to test the efficacy of existing and potentially novel treatments.
If you would like to informally discuss the project or require further information, please contact Dr Marcello Riggio: [Email Address Removed]
Formal applications can be made through the University of Glasgow online application system:
http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/opportunities/howtoapplyforaresearchdegree/#/
Start date is 1st April 2017 (negotiable)
Funding Notes
All costs (tuition fees, bench fees, living costs) must be borne by the applicant through either government-sponsored or personal funding.
Evidence of English language proficiency (IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any sub-test, or an equivalent qualification recognised by the University of Glasgow) must also be provided.