Course summary

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has two broad areas of research activity. The first covers the use of large population sample and data sets to identify key predictive features associated with human pregnancy, such as intrauterine growth restriction, preterm labour and perinatal death. The second major area focuses on the cellular and molecular aspects of the growth of the placenta and its interaction with the endometrium. This includes a detailed investigation of the immune dialogue occurring between the fetal and maternal compartments. Genetic and epigenetic modulation of placental function is also a key area within this field. Modern genomic methods are utilised in both human samples and in genetically manipulated animal models. This interdisciplinary work involves complex teams of molecular and cellular biologists, anatomists, mathematicians, bioinformaticians, statisticians and clinician-scientists. The aim of the PhD is to carry out a research project which contributes new knowledge to the field. The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are: to give students with relevant experience at first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests. Learning Outcomes During the course of this study, programme students will be expected to: read and assimilate relevant background information; formulate a clear and well-defined hypothesis; design an experimental strategy to address the hypothesis; acquire the necessary skills and carry out laboratory work; interpret experimental data appropriately and draw sound conclusions; and write a suitably detailed and formatted thesis. Continuing Applicants currently taking the MPhil in Medical Science (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) and applying to continue to a PhD will be required to pass the MPhil satisfactorily and in a timely manner. Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.