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AREAS OF RESEARCH
- Investigation of the genetic predisposition to diabetes and diabetic
nephropathy employing case-control and simplex family studies. Currently this
work is focused on candidate genes involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes
and diabetic renal disease. Research is supported by funding from Diabetes UK,
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (USA) and the local R&D Office (Northern Ireland)
- Assessment of genetic and biochemical risk factors for cardiovascular
disease patients with renal disease. This research is in collaboration with
Professors Ian Young, Frank Kee and Alun Evans (within the Epidemiology
Recognised Research Group supported by the R&D Office)
- Characterisation of genes induced by erythropoietin (a hormone produced by
the kidney controlling red cell development). These studies are performed in
collaboration with Prof Terry Lappin, Department of Haematology, QUB
Collaborative projects related to cardiovascular risk and renal graft loss
are performed with: Professor Ian Young (Dept of Medicine, QUB, Royal Victoria
Hospital and Renal Unit consultants Dr Peter McNamee and Mr John Connolly.
Studies related to diabetes and diabetic nephropathy are performed in conjunction
with Dr Denis Carson (Department of Child Health) and Dr David Savage (Molecular
Genetics Group). There is also continued collaboration with Professor Terry
Lappin’s Haematology research group on aspects of erythopoietin’s action.
TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
The Regional Nephrology Unit at the Belfast City Hospital provides complete
supervision of all aspects of training for Specialist Registrars seeking a
Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST). All clinical trainees
are encouraged to pursue research training with a view to attaining a
postgraduate qualification (MD or PhD) by thesis. Basic training in research methods, scientific
writing and oral communication of results will be provided. Training will be
provided on a wide range of software with specific attention given to specialist
packages focussing on manipulation and assessment of genetic data. All of the computers within the laboratory are fully
networked as a workgroup and to the University network with access to the
Internet and email. Students will be encouraged to present their
results at both national and international meetings. Generic skills
training in scientific writing, oral and poster presentation of results, use of
word processors, spreadsheets, databases, presentation packages and reference
management software. Training in research methods such as PCR primer design,
basic bioinformatics software is supplemented with genetic epidemiology
statistical support from Dr Chris Patterson. Opportunities exist to study for
MPhil, MMedSc, MD and PhD degrees. Currently the Group is supported by grants
from the Diabetes UK, JDRF USA, DHSSPSNI R&D Office, National Kidney Research
Fund, NIKRF and Renal Unit Fund. An active
postgraduate academic programme of seminars and teaching promotes continued
clinical and non-clinical - scientific interactions.
EDUCATIONAL PREREQUISITES
Non-clinical: Honours degree (l or IIi) or equivalent preferably in a
molecular biology related area.
Clinical: Primary medical degrees and relevant postgraduate qualification, eg. MRCP or FRCS.
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