Last Date: Wednesday, November 06, 2024

Supervisors: Dr Zhanhan Tu, Dr M Thomas

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

University of Leicester    School of Psychology and Vision Sciences

About the Project

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is the most prevalent intraocular malignancy in children under five, comprising 6.1% of cancers in this age group, with an incidence of 1 in 13,844 live births in Europe. Survival rates vary by income level, ranging from 96-100% in high-income countries to 70% in low-income nations, with survivors facing challenges such as vision loss, deformities, and psychosocial issues. Early detection of tumours is critical for preserving vision and reducing metastatic risk in Rb. Children with Rb typically undergo frequent examinations under anaesthesia (EUA), with high-risk cases often undergoing at least 20 EUA sessions by age two.

We are offering an exciting PhD opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at improving early detection and management of Rb, the most common eye cancer in young children. This project will focus on developing and optimising advanced imaging techniques, such as ultrawide-field handheld optical coherence tomography (UWF-HHOCT) and OCTA, to enhance diagnosis and treatment strategies for Rb.

The PhD candidate will have the flexibility to drive the direction of the project based on their interests, in agreement with their supervisors. This role provides an excellent opportunity to work with leading researchers, clinicians and develop skills that can make a real impact on clinical outcomes and patient care in paediatric oncology and ophthalmology.

The successful candidate will join the Vision Sciences group within the School of Psychology and Vision Sciences at the University of Leicester. The clinical aspect of the group, the Ulverscroft Eye Unit, has an international reputation for research into paediatric ophthalmology and imaging of the eye. We have an excellent track-record of supporting students and enabling career progression within our unit supported by the wider university.

The PhD is suitable for graduates with a clinical medicine or clinical sciences background or related discipline.

Project to start as soon as possible.

Project / Funding Enquiries: PVS-PGR@le.ac.uk or direct to the supervisor Dr Zhanhan Tu Zhanhan.tu@le.ac.uk

To apply please refer to our website https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/funded-opportunities/pvs-tu

Funding Notes

This Ulverscroft foundation PhD studentship/College of Life Sciences PhD studentship provides:

3.5 years UK tuition fee waiver

3.5 years Annual stipend at UKRI rates (currently £19,237 for 2024/25)

International applicants are welcome to apply but must be able to demonstrate they can fund the difference between UK and overseas fees for the duration of their study. This will amount to £18,864 per year of study (as at 2024/25).