Examining the dysfunction of DNA damage repair in synucleinopathies

DNA damage is an emerging stressor implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Our recent research within post-mortem dementia with Lewy body brain tissue has highlighted the dysregulation of several DNA damage repair pathways, alongside the occurrence of a novel nuclear alpha-synuclein pathology. This project would build upon these findings, determining similarities in nuclear pathology and DNA repair dysfunction in other synucleinopathies such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple systems atrophy. Employing a combination of immunohistochemical, biochemical and sequencing based approaches, the work would further delineate the underlying relationship between alpha-synuclein pathology, alterations in DNA damage repair and it’s impact on genomic integrity.

For informal enquiries about the project, contact Dr. David Koss, Dkoss001@dundee.ac.uk

For general enquiries about the University of Dundee, contact doctoralacademy@dundee.ac.uk

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent for non-UK qualifications), and/or a Masters degree in a relevant discipline. For international qualifications, please see equivalent entry requirements here: www.dundee.ac.uk/study/international/country/.

English language requirement: IELTS (Academic) overall score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 5.5 in reading, listening, speaking and 6.0 in writing). The University of Dundee accepts a variety of equivalent qualifications and alternative ways to demonstrate language proficiency; please see full details of the University’s English language requirements here: www.dundee.ac.uk/guides/english-language-requirements

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APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Email Dr. David Koss, Dkoss001@dundee.ac.uk to (1) send a copy of your CV and (2) discuss your potential application and any practicalities (e.g. suitable start date).

Step 2: After discussion with Dr. David Koss, formal applications can be made via our direct application system. When applying, please follow the instructions below:

Candidates must apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Medicine (3 year) using our direct application system:

Please select the study mode (full-time/part-time) and start date agreed with the lead supervisor.

In the Research Proposal section, please:

–         Enter the lead supervisor’s name in the ‘proposed supervisor’ box

–         Enter the project title listed at the top of this page in the ‘proposed project title’ box

In the ‘personal statement’ section, please outline your suitability for the project selected.