Website The University of Birmingham
We are seeking a talented, motivated student with a passion for research to complete a PhD which combines neurology and maternal health.
About the project
Migraine remains the commonest cause of disability and reduced quality of life in adults under the age of 50-years in Western Europe. By the age of 45-years a third of all women have experienced a migraine and a quarter have ongoing symptoms. Migraine is not a benign condition and associated with increased cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk in women of childbearing age. Retrospective studies have also linked the presence of migraine to pregnancy related complications, including increased risk of pre-eclampsia and miscarriage.
The aims of this project are to:
1) Explore the ideas, concerns and expectations of women with migraine and their management in relation to pregnancy.
2) Explore management strategies of women with migraine in pregnancy.
3) Prospectively look at the risk of pregnancy associated complications, including miscarriage.
This projects brings together a talented multidisciplinary team with expertise in migraine and pregnancy and will be co-led by: by Dr Benjamin Wakerley, Consultant Neurologist and Subspecialist in Headache and Dr Rima Dhillon-Smith, Consultant Gynaecologist and Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine – at the University of Birmingham.
Student support and development
The PhD student on this project will receive a high level of scientific training and extensive support for career development. These skills will be developed through weekly journal club and lab meetings, where the student will regularly present their work. The student will also gain experience in: presentations, writing and scientific communication, and critical analysis. This comprehensive support ensures they develop the skills and experience needed for a successful research career. If applicable, the student may also benefit from further development of their clinical skills – in the fields of headache and maternal medicine.
The University Of Birmingham also organise a number of seminars and workshops that will benefit the student and their future career in research.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or upper second-class degree in a relevant scientific discipline, and who are self-funded or have typically applied for, or secured funding for their studies from their government, employer or associated charitable organisations.
How to apply
Applicants will need to submit the following documentation during the application process:
• Detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities and why you wish to undertake a PhD in the research team;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts written in English;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.
• Evidence of scholarship application/funding or independent funding.
Further information
Please email Dr Benjamin Wakerley – b.wakerley@bham.ac.uk
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