The role of microRNAs in Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition

Summary

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are tiny RNA molecules that play a crucial role in regulating gene activity by interacting with messenger RNAs (mRNAs). While there’s hope that studying miRNAs can improve disease diagnosis and treatment, we still have much to learn about how they work. Our lab focuses on how specific miRNAs and their related gene networks can influence disease progression, particularly through a process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is linked to the advancement of various diseases, such as prostate cancer and glaucoma. This project will explore the relationship between miRNAs and EMT using various experimental models, aiming to find new ways to manage these diseases.

Methods:

The methods, equipment and expertise outlined below are routinely used in the laboratories of the supervisors. Papers featuring similar experimental approaches have been published by them (5-8).

*2D & 3D Cell culture (cell-lines, primary cells, spheroids)

*PCR Expression Analysis of miRNA

*Functional Analysis of selected miRNA  - Transfection assays  - Effect on protein expression (Western Blotting)  - Validation of target(s) (PCR & luciferase reporter assay)  - Cell behaviour bioassays (proliferation / apoptosis /invasion )

*Bioinformatic analysis & Data-mining of online (clinical) data repositories.

Aims & objectives:

a. To identify and select miRNAs for investigation

b. To assess how EMT is affected by miRNA expression

c. To identify targets and carry out functional analysis of selected miRNAs

d. To explore clinical significance of selected miRNAs through in silico analysis of online datasets

e. To evaluate the potential of miRNAs as targets for disease intervention.

Skills Required of Applicant:

*Good Laboratory skills

*Good oral and written presentation skills

*Good critical thinking and analytical skills

*Good IT skills

*Good work ethic and ability to work independently

*Experience of biostatistics and using statistical packages

*Interest in bioinformatic analysis

Important Information: Applications for more than one PhD studentship are welcome, however if you apply for more than one PhD project within Biomedical Sciences, your first application on the system will be deemed your first-choice preference and further applications will be ordered based on the sequential time of submission. If you are successfully shortlisted, you will be interviewed only on your first-choice application and ranked accordingly. Those ranked highest will be offered a PhD studentship. In the situation where you are ranked highly and your first-choice project is already allocated to someone who was ranked higher than you, you may be offered your 2nd or 3rd choice project depending on the availability of this project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.