An ambitious EC-funded research initiative on epigenetics advancing towards systems biology

Barts and The London, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London

Description

Project outline: Recent evidence from animals and humans suggests that environmental factors in the parental generation can influence phenotypic and disease outcomes in the offspring. Therefore, there must be some molecular factor that is not encoded in the DNA and yet can be inherited by the next generation. This phenomenon is referred to as transgenerational epigenetic inheritance and suggests that DNA is not the sole unit of heredity. In our lab, we have recently developed a mouse model of transgenerational epigenetic effects and would now like to elucidate the molecular details. The PhD project will involve cutting edge genomic and epigenomic analyses of very early developmental/embryonic stages in the mouse, including whole-genome analyses of epigenetic marks and gene expression. We believe that such effects could eventually explain some of the non-genetic component of human complex diseases such as diabetes.

Qualifications

Graduates with a BSc (First or Upper Second) or MSc (Distinction or Merit). Previous research experience would be an advantage. This 3 year studentship will commence on 1st October 2013 and the applicant will be based in the School's Blizard Institute, Whitechapel Campus, London U.K.

Salary

This Studentship is funded by the MRC and comes with a tax-free stipend of approximately £15,740 per annum. It is open to UK Nationals, EEA/Swiss migrant workers and non-UK nationals with indefinite leave to remain in the UK who will have three years ordinary residence in the UK prior to the start of the studentship. University tuition fees (at UK/EU levels) will be met by the funding body.
Please refer to website for full eligibility details:
http://www.mrc.ac.uk/Fundingopportunities/Applicanthandbook/Studentships/Eligibility/index.html

Application details

To apply, please send a copy of your CV and a covering letter to the supervisor BEFORE 22nd November 2012, 5pm.
Full online applications will be required only from applicants pre-selected by the supervisor.
Closing date for online applications: 30th November 2012
Interviews will be held on 6th December 2012.
Vardhman Rakyan - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it