At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on antibiotic use in a painful skin condition.
- Company: Join the University of Manchester's Dermatology and Pharmaco-epidemiology Research Group.
- Benefits: Four years of full funding, covering tuition fees and a UKRI-rate stipend.
- Other info: Collaborate with patients and experts in a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare by tackling antimicrobial resistance.
- Qualifications: Upper second-class degree in a relevant field; research experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
Hidradenitis suppurativa, one of dermatology’s most painful conditions, affects around one in 130 UK residents, causing recurrent boils, abscesses and scarring in the armpits, groin and under the breasts. Oral antibiotics are a mainstay of treatment, often taken for months or years, but their impact on future antibiotic effectiveness is unknown. This PhD will answer that question using electronic health records.
You will work with the Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum, linked to hospital admission and mortality data. You will:
- map how antibiotics are prescribed for hidradenitis suppurativa across the UK and how this has changed;
- use machine learning to uncover distinct patterns of treatment over time and test whether they predict disease flares;
- estimate whether prolonged antibiotic exposure is followed by antibiotic treatment failure when patients are later treated for chest or urine infections.
You will be trained in epidemiological study design, causal inference, survival analysis, machine learning and statistical programming, and in the governance of large health datasets. Supervision spans dermatology, pharmacoepidemiology and health informatics. You will join the Dermatology and Pharmaco-epidemiology Research Group in Manchester, within a dermatology centre that is a standalone theme of the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre. You will be supported to work with patients in shaping research. Antimicrobial resistance is a national priority, yet dermatology evidence is scarce. Findings aim to inform clinical guidelines and stewardship policy, with all analysis code shared openly.
Entry Requirements
Competition for studentships is expected to be very high. Applicants are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second-class undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in medicine, pharmacy, epidemiology, public health, statistics, data science, health informatics or a related quantitative discipline. A relevant Masters degree is desirable. Research experience in health data analysis, and familiarity with a statistical programming language (R, Stata or Python), are desirable. Successful applicants may also have:
- A master's qualification.
- Relevant research experience.
- Experience demonstrating suitability for doctoral research.
Applicants who are offered a place must meet the University's English language requirements before commencing studies.
Funding
These studentships offer UK and international applicants four years of full funding, covering tuition fees at their applicable fee status (including international fees) and a UKRI-rate stipend. MRC NW-DMS competition-funded studentship – full tuition fees (including international) + UKRI-rate stipend. Open to UK and international applicants.
PhD Studentship (MRC NW-DMS) - Antibiotic Use in Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and inclusivity. As a Sport Centre Assistant, you'll enjoy flexible shifts while contributing to a dynamic environment that prioritises high-quality experiences for all users. With ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, working at our esteemed institution allows you to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship (MRC NW-DMS) - Antibiotic Use in Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Manchester
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Look for internship programmes specifically set up for life sciences or biotechnology students. Many companies, including The University of Manchester, offer structured pathways for interns, so check their careers page or your university's career services to snag those early opportunities.
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We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship (MRC NW-DMS) - Antibiotic Use in Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Manchester
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How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
As we're diving into the biotechnology world, it's essential to refresh your knowledge on commonly used lab techniques. Be prepared to discuss methods like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and CRISPR. They might even ask you to explain the principles behind them or how you've used them in your studies!
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