Cancer Biology and Treatment: Molecular, Clinical and Stem Cell Research (University of Birmingham, UK)

Unit Code

01121

Department/Institution Offering Unit

Department of Pathology
Division of Cancer Studies
University of Birmingham
UK

Unit Points

Research Points: 100

Coursework Points: 0

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Contacts

Unit Coordinator/s:

Prof El-Nasir Lalani
Department of Pathology
Division of Cancer Studies
University of Birmingham
UK

tel: +44 121 414 4015
fax: +44 121 414 4019
email: e.lalani@bham.ac.uk

Alternative Contact:

Dr Hanna M. Romanska
Department of Pathology
Division of Cancer Studies
University of Birmingham
UK

tel: +44 121 414 3146
fax: +44 121 414 4019
email: h.romanska@bham.ac.uk

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Overall Objectives

The Unit is designed to

• Introduce the student to the field of basic science and translational medical research focused on Prostate Cancer and Stem cell biology;
• Provide the student with a platform/environment in which they can learn how to:
• Plan/initiate a research project;
• Undertake critical review of the literature
• Write a project proposal
• Design experiments with appropriate controls
• Provide basic training in laboratory research techniques;
• Allow the student to gain experience of team work;
• Develop and improve oral and written skills

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Content

Coursework: N/A

Research: Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for almost 10% of all malignancies in men with half a million new cases occurring annually worldwide. Currently used biochemical tests are limited by low specificity and sensitivity. There is a pressing need to find reliable methods for screening, diagnosis and prognosis such as identifying cellular regulators of the disease. Such knowledge will not only provide insight into the aetiology of PCa but also enable development of new diagnostic and prognostic markers. Our group offers a programme that spans laboratory through to clinically based projects on specific aspects of the biology of PCa that range from clinically orientated to focused on basic science. Studies are based on human, animal and in-vitro models, including embryonic stem cells. We offer training and experience in well-established techniques in cell/ molecular biology as well as new, recently introduced methods such as NMR spectroscopy. Individual projects are focused but within the overall programme of the Department. They will allow the student to test a specific hypothesis while working in close collaboration with other members of the group and under supervision of an experienced scientist. As members of a research team, students will be expected to participate in and contribute to the regular educational and scientific activities of the group.

Sample Research Topics:

1. New markers of early stage of PCa.
2. Estrogens and oestrogen receptors in PCa.
3. NMR spectroscopy in assessment of tumorigenic potential of cells
4. Application of stem cell biology to cancer.

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Assessment Breakdown

Research Component: 100 points
Research Report (up to 10,000 words): 75%
Oral presentation of research findings 10%
Supervisor Evaluation: 15%

Coursework Component:
N/A

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Student Numbers

Number of places available: 4

Prospective students please note: to be eligible for any overseas AMS unit, you must have attained an aggregate of at least 70% in the University of Melbourne medical course.