[UK] Phd Studentship - University of Ulster
The competition is open to any applicant with normal UK residence who holds a first or upper second class honours degree in a subject relevant to the proposed research topic or a cognate area. The successful candidate will enrol as of October 2007, on a full-time programme of research studies leading to the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
The studentship will comprise fees together with an annual stipend of £12,600, and will be awarded for a period of up to three years subject to satisfactory progress.
Project description
Herpes Simplex Keratitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which typically presents as a unilateral “red eye†with a variable degree of pain or ocular irritation. A definitive diagnosis of HSK is extremely difficult, to date no diagnostic assay is available and diagnosis depends greatly on the expertise of the Ophthalmologist to which the patient presents. Previous studies by collaborators Sharma et al have investigated the use of an antibody based diagnostic assay to allow detection of the Herpes Virus on the eye of mice.
Objectives:
Research within the group focuses on the potential development of a rapid and easy to use diagnostic test for HSK for use in patients.
Methods:
Research techniques used include: impression cytology, conventional/ real time and multiplex PCR, immunohistochemistry, ELISA and culture of primary human corneal epithelial cells. In addition, the project will involve interaction with patients and consultant ophthalmologists in clinics and theatres.
Collaborators include researchers throughout the UK, Japan and USA and previous PhD students have spent successful placement with such collaborators during their PhD.
Those interested in this project may wish to discuss it with
Professor Dr Tara Moore
Email: t.moore@ulster.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)28 70324577
before applying.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 30th March 2007.
Interviews will be held during the period late April to early May 2007
Application materials may be obtained from:
Hazel Campbell,
Research Office,
University of Ulster,
Cromore Road, Coleraine, BT52 1SA,
telephone: 028 7032 4729,
e-mail: hj.campbell@ulster.ac.uk
or
website http://ulster.ac.uk/researchstudy
