An exciting opportunity for a PhD student in the area of neurogenetics/population genetics has arisen through the Science Foundation Ireland funded project: "The application of MRI to identify endophenotypes in focal epilepsy".
Rapid progress has recently been made in the field of human genetics. With the maturation of the Human Genome and HapMap projects, it is now possible to simultaneously assess the contribution of millions of polymorphic sites across the human genome to the development and treatment of common disease. However the success of such large scale genetic mapping studies depends heavily on the quality of the underlying patient phenotypes.
The experiences of the research community have shown that endophenotypes are required to augment the power of genetic mapping studies in neurological disorders. Based on in-vivo Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (QMRI), this programme will identify subtle structural variations in the brain which are both heritable and involved in the development of temporal lobe epilepsy. These novel endophenotypes will then be measured in a larger cohort of epilepsy patients for whom whole genome association data is already available. This combined large-scale genetics and neuroimaging dataset will provide a strong basis not only for empowered genetic mapping of epilepsy but also improved application of MRI in the clinical setting.
Research will be carried out within a translation medical/research team at Beaumont Hospital and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. This is a 3 year project starting in September 2008. You will be provided with excellent training in research methods and supported in your development as an independent researcher. Through the international scientific consortium EPIGEN (www.epigen.ie), part of your training will be conducted at prestigious overseas laboratories.
The successful candidate will:
- Have a minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in mathematics/statistics/physics/genetics or related undergraduate science degree.
- Have the ability to work in a highly motivated team and the initiative to work independently when required.
- Have strong communication and organisational skills.
- Have experience in programming and/or the application of magnetic resonance imaging (both desirable but not essential).
Any questions relative to this post should be directed to Dr. Gianpiero Cavalleri (gcavalleri@rcsi.ie). Candidates should email a CV and letter of application outlining their suitability for the position to: gcavalleri@rcsi.ie. The closing date for applications is September 1 2008.
