Investigating the role of RNA dependent DNA repair in childhood cancer

Damage to our genetic material DNA is responsible for a wide range of human diseases including neurodegenerative diseases, haematological diseases, immune deficiencies, early ageing and cancers. Although external agents such as radiation, alcohol or cigarette smoke are responsible for a proportion of DNA damage, by far the majority of DNA damage occurs as a consequence of normal cellular processes. In the last few years, it has become apparent that an important source of DNA damage is caused by conflicts between the processes of transcription and replication that decode and duplicate our genome respectively. These transcription replication conflicts (TRCs) are greatly elevated when cellular growth is stimulated. Recently we identified a role for the RNA helicase, DHX9, in both the generation of TRCs and the repair of the DNA damage they cause. In this project we will use advanced high-resolution microscopy, cellular biology and molecular genetics to determine how DHX9 plays such an important role in the repair of DNA damage and how defects in the function of this important protein contributes to disease, such as the childhood cancer Ewing sarcoma. This project will involve close partnership with other top labs in the UK and USA with a focus on developing treatments for DNA damage related diseases.

For informal enquiries about the project, contact Professor Kevin Hiom, k.hiom@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.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Email Professor Kevin Hiom, k.hiom@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 Professor Hiom, k.hiom@dundee.ac.uk, 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.