PhD Studentship 2015

Centre for Endocrinology & Diabetes

Institute of Human Development

Establishment of ophthalmic markers for the early diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Dr Mitra Tavakoli, Professor Rayaz Malik & Professor Andrew Boulton

The Centre for Endocrinology and Diabetes invites applications for a 3-year fully-funded PhD due to commence April 2015. The studentship covers UK/EU tuition fees, research expenses and annual tax-free stipend at UK Research Council rates (£13,863 in 2014/15).

Diabetic Neuropathy (DN) is one of the least recognized complications in children yet it is the most costly of all chronic complications of diabetes and a cause of significant disability and poor quality of life. DN is generally symptomless during the early stages yet once symptoms develop, it is difficult to treat. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are thus essential in preventing its development.

Our previous studies established corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) as a sensitive test for the diagnosis of DN in adults with Type 1 and 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM). This PhD project will look to establish CCM and other ophthalmic markers as an early diagnostic and predictive tool in children with T1DM.

The nature of the study would provide the successful candidate with an opportunity to expand their clinical and programming skills beyond that of a normal practicing optometrist and establish themselves as a prominent basic and clinical researcher. The research will be conducted in an extremely supportive environment (NIHR - Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility and Centre for Endocrinology and Diabetes) with leading scientists in the field. There will be scope to attend international conferences and publish extensively in leading journals.

Extensive training will be provided in corneal confocal microscopy and a range of ophthalmic techniques as well as image analysis.

Candidates are expected to hold a minimum upper-second (or equivalent) undergraduate degree in optometry or ophthalmology. Previous experience of some of the techniques to be employed in the study would be an advantage, as would a relevant Masters qualification. We seek candidates who are willing to learn new techniques and gain a strong grounding in scientific research that has strong relevance to clinical practice. Informal enquires are strongly encouraged.

The anticipated start date is April 2015, but this is flexible. Whilst the funding is capped at UK/EU tuition fee rates, non-EU candidates with the ability to fund the difference between UK/EU and non-EU fees (approximately £14,000 per annum) are encouraged to apply. 

Please direct applications in the following format to Dr Mitra Tavakoli (mitra.tavakoli<στο>manchester.ac.uk):      

• Academic CV
• Official academic transcripts
• Contact details for two suitable referees
• A personal statement (750 words maximum) outlining your suitability for the study, what you hope to achieve from the PhD and your research experience to date
• Evidence of funding (if non-EU applicant)

Any enquiries relating to the project and/or suitability should be directed to Dr Tavakoli. Applications are invited on an on-going basis but early expression of interest is encouraged.

http://www.human-development.manchester.ac.uk/staff/128880

http://www.human-development.manchester.ac.uk/endocrinologyanddiabetes/

http://www.mhs.manchester.ac.uk/study/