Atp-binding cassette transporters in obesity - drug targets for long term chronic conditions
Obesity is a well-known public health issue and the cost associated in the management of obesity related long term chronic conditions, such as, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cancer, is enormous.
Research Opportunities
Summary
Perhaps, of greater concern is the realisation that drug therapies available for the management of these conditions do not work as effectively in obese individuals. A more targeted approach for drug discovery and therapy management is, therefore, urgently required. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are highly conserved genes involved in the active transport of many amphiphilic and lipophilic molecules including drugs, lipids and endogenous metabolites and further investigation into their role in effectiveness of drugs in obese individuals is required. This project aims to (i) map the expression of ATP-binding cassette drug and lipid transporters in tissues from a mouse model of diet induced obesity, (ii) confirm differential expression of key ATP-binding cassette drug and lipid transporters in specific tissues at both gene and protein expression levels and (iii) test tissue-specific cell culture systems, already available within the group, for expression of the key ATP-binding cassette drug and lipid transporters identified in (ii).
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It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
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Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
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English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
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Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2024/2025
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,786 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,870 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,390 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £19,450 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,670 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,720 per academic year
For Academic Year 2023/2024
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,712 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,830 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,356 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £18,700 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,220 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,350 per academic year
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All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
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Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
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