Basic Dental Science (Cancer Studies) MPhil

Research within Cancer Studies aims to understand the molecular pathology of head and neck cancers, primarily squamous cell carcinoma but also malignant salivary gland tumours. A major focus of our current work is verifying at molecular and functional level, the role of candidate genes identified through high density SNP array analyses of these tumours.

At molecular level, this involves mutation, quantitative expression and promoter hypermethylation-analyses. At functional level, this is involves assaying phenotypic effects of modulating expression of the candidate genes and identifying pathways in which the proteins encoded by these genes act. Promising candidates are tested further for correlation of expression with clinical parameters and potential validation as biomarkers.

MPhil study within the School is a challenging yet rewarding experience. Flexibility is allowed within the parameters of the study to allow the research to evolve and instigate findings not envisaged at the outset of the work. This is complimented by a dedicated training structure, which provides critical skills training, personal development and progression milestones.

The MPhil project will either be outlined by the academic supervisor offering the study or, alternatively, by an applicant seeking to work within a particular research area with a focused plan of research in mind. The supervisory team will assist the MPhil applicant throughout the study, ensuring academic objectives are met and suitable training is provided in core skills fundamental to the research.

Transferable skills training is provided by a dedicated Graduate Training Programme offered by the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, which provides training in research methodology, critical writing skills, intellectual property, research ethics etc.

Students are expected to attend journal clubs, research meetings and talks within the School and University.

Academic entry qualification overview:

Applicants will be required to provide evidence of their primary dental qualification from a recognised institution. In some circumstances, relevant research or professional experience may be acceptable in place of an academic qualification.

English language:

For those students whose first language is not English, one of the following is required:

• IELTS test 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in the written component and no less than 5.5 in all components)
• TOEFL test: 577 paper-based (with no less than 5.5 in theTWE - Test of Written English)
• TOEFL test: 233 computer-based (with no less than 5.5 in theTWE - Test of Written English)
• TOEFL test: 90 (internet-based) (Minimum: Listening/Writing 17; Reading 18 and Speaking 20)
• Pearson Test 59-65 (with no less than 51 in each component)

This certification must be no more than 12 months old

Applicants should provide the following:

• 2 academic references - both must be signed, dated and on headed paper. References more than twelve months old will not be accepted
• Copies (not originals) of degree certificates and official academic transcripts of previous study showing the subjects taken and grades obtained. (If these are in a language other than English please provide official translations.) Note: If applicants hold a BDS from a UK University they need not provide a transcript of results but must provide a copy of the certificate
• Copies (not originals) of English Language certification if an applicant's first language is not English - IELTS, TOEFL or Pearson Test only

International Students: Please upload a copy of your current valid passport showing the photograph page with your application.

Please note: The School will not process any applications that have supporting documents missing. The School does not make offers conditional on the submission of supporting documents.

It is highly recommended that MPhil applicants identify and contact a proposed academic supervisor prior to submitting their formal application. The School website contains extensive information on our research groups and the majority of academics have personal profiles detailing their existing work and publications.

Prior to application, it is best practice to email a suitable academic with a CV and a brief abstract of proposed study so it can be assessed for its academic merit. If encouraged, applicants can then apply formally online. If specific funded projects are advertised, details on the application process and requirements will be outlined in the advertisement.

There is a detailed system to monitor the progress of MPhil students. Students must submit work at specific stages and meet with their supervisors throughout their course. Some meetings are informal, while others are formal and are documented.

When students register they receive a postgraduate handbook which explains the monitoring procedures in detail, including flowcharts for easy planning. This information is also available on the Faculty intranet which students gain access to upon registration.

School of Dentistry

See: About Us.

Telephone: +44 (0)161 306 0239

Facsimile: +44 (0)161 306 1565

Email: pg-dentistry@manchester.ac.uk

Website: www.dentistry.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/