Impact of vitamin D supplementation on Wnt activity in the development of periodontitis
*Please note, this project is self-funded*
Project details
First Supervisor: Dr Emily Lu
Second Supervisor:Dr Jonathan Richardson
Duration: 3-4 years
Mode of study: Full-time
Funding: Self-funded
Eligibility: Home/EU, overseas
Expected start date: February 2024
Application deadline: Open until suitable candidate is found
Reference number:2023/DOCS/02
Project description
Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread problem in the UK. Vitamin D plays a protective role against a myriad of chronic diseases. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the UK. Current treatments fail to reverse existing damage to bone and supporting tissues. Current studies have linked vitamin D sufficiency with reduced odds of tooth loss and improved responses to periodontal treatment. However, the effects of dietary vitamin D supplementation on the attenuation of bone loss during periodontitis are unknown. This PhD project will examine the effects of vitamin D supplementation on key regulatory molecules involved during development of periodontitis.
Research Training:
- Candidate will be have access to main research facilitates within FoDOCs, which is internationally renowned for craniofacial biology.
- The candidate will develop skills in animal handling and ultimately work towards obtaining a personal animal licence
- The candidate will learn a range of immunohistochemical methods and imaging techniques, molecular techniques including RNAseq, qPCR, ELISAs/Luminex
- Use of statistical packages such as SPSS and R
- This research training will enhance the Scientific writing and presentation skills. During the PhD, the candidate will also have access to enrol for numerous course available for development of post graduate students.
Person specification:
- Dentist/non-dentist
- Research commitment
To view entry requirements and further course information, see the Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD.
Next steps
Please apply online at apply.kcl.ac.uk following these steps:
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Register a new account/login
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Once logged in, select Create a new application
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Enter ‘Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD (Full-time)/(Part-time)' under Choose a programme. Please ensure you select the correct mode of study
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Select start date
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Please note: Applicants must include the project reference number (2023/DOCS/02) in the 'Research proposal' and 'Funding (point 5)' sections of the application.
Applications must be received by the deadline specified in this listing.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss projects with the first supervisor prior to submitting an application.
Dr Emily Lu, email: Emily.lu@kcl.ac.uk
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