Up to 30% off — ends 2 Aug
ONLY00h00m00s
Up to 30% off — ends 2 Aug
ONLY00h00m00s
Aston University
4 months ago
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PhD in Genomic Profiling of Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma (PPGL) to Resolve Missing Driver Mutations Aston University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biology
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
Year round applications
Country
United Kingdom
University
Aston University
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About this position
This PhD project at Aston University focuses on the genomic profiling of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL), rare neuroendocrine tumours with complex genetic backgrounds and significant clinical variability. Despite advances in identifying key driver mutations (such as NF1, VHL, RET, HRAS, and ATRX), a substantial proportion of PPGL cases remain genetically unexplained, presenting a persistent 'driver deficit.' The project aims to resolve these missing drivers, which is crucial for improving diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment, especially for metastatic cases.
Building on previous work involving short-read whole-genome sequencing and DNA methylation profiling, this research will leverage Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing (LRS) to analyze selected PPGL samples. LRS technology enables the detection of complex structural variants, fusion events, and tumour-specific methylation signatures that are often missed by short-read sequencing, particularly in repetitive or complex genomic regions. The project objectives include identifying previously undetectable driver mutations, resolving complex genomic rearrangements, validating long-read methylation methods, and generating robust datasets for high-impact publications and future funding applications.
The successful candidate will join the College of Health and Life Sciences at Aston University, working under the supervision of Dr M Elasrag. The position is based on the Aston Campus in Birmingham, UK, and regular in-person attendance is expected. The project offers strong translational potential, aiming to advance the understanding of PPGL molecular pathogenesis and improve clinical management.
Funding covers Home tuition fees; overseas applicants are welcome but must pay the difference between Home and Overseas tuition fees (£17,712 for 2026/7). Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, a First or Upper Second Class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, or a Merit in a relevant Masters degree plus an undergraduate degree. English language proficiency is required. Applications must include transcripts, certificates, a research statement, personal statement, CV, two academic references, evidence of English language proficiency, and a copy of the passport. Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams.
Applications are accepted year-round. For formal enquiries, contact Dr Mohammed 'Mo' Elasrag at [email protected]. For application process queries, contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at [email protected].
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
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