Developing and Evaluating a Spectroscopic Liquid Biopsy for Primary Care at University of Central Lancashire

PhD (via MPhil) Studentship in School of Medicine and Dentistry

Reference Number: DTC12-22-60

Applications are invited for a PhD (via MPhil) studentship in the School of Medicine and Dentistry. The studentship is funded through the UCLan Doctoral Training Centre for Industry Collaboration and is tenable for up to 3.5 years full time [subject to satisfactory progress].  Both Home and EU/International Applicants may apply but EU/International Applicants will be required to pay the difference in tuition fees between the UK and EU/International fee rates. The studentship will provide successful applicants with an annual stipend in line with UKRI rates (Currently £18,622 per year), subject to satisfactory progress.

Project Description:

A rapid, low-cost cancer early detection test would be transformational, as earlier cancer detection can increase survival rates and quality of life of patients. The Dxcover liquid biopsy has been proven in a large-scale discovery retrospective study for 8 different cancers. The test uses Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and machine learning algorithms to detect cancer. This project will develop and refine a spectroscopic liquid biopsy in a targeted patient population and address key aims with regards to service implementation. Briefly this project will assess:

• Current patient pathways for cancer detection from direct GP referrals and the impact of recent changes within NHS England on service delivery (e.g. community diagnostic centres)
• The collection and analysis of patient serum samples from a defined cohort within the analysed patient pathways
• Development of advanced machine learning algorithms combining spectroscopy and demographic data
• Health economic analysis targeted to the specific patient pathway
• Interrogating the IR spectrum to determine areas of diagnostic interest and investigate immune / tumour relationship

This project will be performed in close collaboration with Dxcover Ltd who are based in Glasgow, UK

Further information

Informal project related enquiries about the post can be made to Prof. Matthew Baker (MBaker10@uclan.ac.uk)

For the full details go to: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/studentships

Applications should be completed on our online application system, selecting the following options:

• Type of Study – Research Degree (Postgraduate)
• Course – Master of Philosophy/Doctor of Philosophy
• Campus – Preston Campus
• Mode of Study – Full Time

Please quote the Studentship reference number DTC12-22-60 on the online application form in the personal statement section. You will not be able to enter the number in the Studentship reference section.

Closing Date: 15^th August 2023

Proposed Interview Date: TBC

Expected Start Date: January 2024

CURRENT UCLAN RESEARCH STUDENTS WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR THIS RESEARCH STUDENTSHIP