Regulation of mRNA Translation in Brain Cancer

Project Description

mRNA translation is a complex mechanism, as part of the gene expression process, that results in synthesis of proteins. The translation machinery is tightly controlled in normal cells but cancer cells hijack it to further their cause of abnormal growth. Our lab investigates the mechanisms that regulate mRNA translation, particularly at initiation phase, and their changes in different stages of cancer formation and progression.

We are looking for an ambitious, self-motivated student to join our team at Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology (CCRCB). The student will use and develop a broad range of technical skills in molecular biology, high-throughput analysis of transcriptome and translatome, genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9), and mouse models of cancer. The generated knowledge will provide a new framework for understanding of the pathogenesis of cancer and serve to develop therapeutic strategies to inhibit cancer progression.

Applicants are invited from a range of biochemistry/genetics/molecular biology/cell biology/biomedical backgrounds; although an enthusiastic approach to the proposed research, area is essential. Laboratory experience covering any of the techniques mentioned above is an advantage.

SUPERVISORS

Dr Mehdi Jafarnejad

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Candidates should have or expect to obtain a 2:1 or higher Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant biomedical or life sciences subject.

English Language

Candidates applying from countries where the first language is not English should produce evidence of their competence through a qualification such as IELTS or TOEFL score.

The minimum recommended score for the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Science is:
• IELTS score of 6.0 with not less than 5.5 in each of the four component elements of listening, reading, speaking and writing taken within the last 2 years;
• TOEFL score of 80+ (internet basted test), taken within the last 2 years, with minimum component scores of; Listening 17, Reading 18, Speaking 20, Writing 17);
• A valid Certificate of Proficiency in English grade A or B;
• A valid Certificate of Advanced English grade A; or
• A first or upper second class honours degree from a university based in the UK, Republic of Ireland or other suitably quality assured location in a country deemed by the UK Border Agency to be majority English speaking.

For a list of English Language qualifications also accepted by the School and University please see the following link:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/International/International-students/Applying/English-language-requirements/#English

The English Language Unit (ELU) offers both pre-sessional and in-sessional courses in English for academic purposes and study skills. Courses vary in length and full information can be obtained from the ELU http://www.qub.ac.uk/tefl/

CLOSING DATE

Sunday, January 20, 2019

Funding Notes

*FUNDING CONFIRMED – Department for the Economy (DfE)*

Eligibility for both fees (£4260 for 2018/19, 2019/20 TBC) and maintenance (£14,777 for 2018/19, 2019/20 TBC) depends on the applicants being either an ordinary UK resident or those EU residents who have lived permanently in the UK for the 3 years immediately preceding the start of the studentship.

Non UK residents who hold EU residency may also apply but if successful may receive fees only.

For further details re eligibility criteria (including academic, citizenship and residency criteria) please click on the following link: View Website

How to Apply

Please refer to 'Entry Requirements' for specific admissions criteria.

Apply online via the Queen's on-line application portal .  Guidance is available on the University’s Prospective Student pages.

When applying for a project, please choose ‘MEDICINE’ as your subject area/School.

Please ensure you adhere to the closing dates.

If you have any further queries please contact:  pgoffice.smdb@qub.ac.uk  or +44 (0) 28 9097 2619/2042.

Please visit the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences,  Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, website for further details about the Centre.