University of Newcastle
Medical School
Department of Ophthalmology
Research Studentship
The Pathophysiology of Inherited Retinal Disease
Project Supervisors: Mr. M.P. Clarke, Department of Ophthalmology
Dr. K. W. Mitchell, Department of Medical Physics
The inherited retinal dystrophies are a group of conditions leading to
severe visual disability. The mechanisms of visual loss are poorly
understood. The objective of this study is to investigate the
pathophysiology of inherited central retinal dystrophies in families
from the Northern Region, using electrophysiological and
psychophysical techniques. Training will be given in the use of basic
and clinical vision research techniques. One of the aims of the
project will be to develop new methods suitable for the investigation
of central retinal disease.
The Department of Ophthalmology at the Royal Victoria Infirmary,
Newcastle has ongoing research collaborations with the Regional
Department of Medical Physics relating to the electrophysiological
investigation of eye disease, and with the Department of Physiological
Sciences in psychophysical studies of basic visual mechanisms.
The student appointed to the studentship will be required to register
initially for the degree of Master of Philosophy in the Faculty of
Medicine, and if progress is satisfactory in the first year, will then
register for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. He or she will be
required to satisfy all requirements of the Medical School for
postgraduate training, including coursework and submission of research
reports. In Physiological Sciences, the student will have the
opportunity to collaborate with Dr. A. C. Hurlbert, who has agreed to
act as an adviser for the project, and to participate in postgraduate
courses and seminars run by the Sensory Systems Research Group.
The studentship consists of a maintenance grant of 6,551 pounds, which
is subject to an annual review, and remission of fees at the Home/EU rate.
Overseas applicants should also apply for an ORS award, or demonstrate the
ability to pay the difference between home and overseas fees. There
are generous funds available for support costs for the project, as well
as for travel to national and international conferences.
Applicants should have, or expect to obtain in 1996, a Master's Degree
or a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree in a biomedical or
physical sciences subject, or an equivalent background.
Further particulars are available from Mr Clarke or Dr Mitchell on
0191-222-6000 ext 7183, or from Dr Hurlbert on 0191-222-7638/
Anya.Hurlbert@newcastle.ac.uk.
Application forms are available from
The Postgraduate Office
University of Newcastle Medical School
Framlington Place
Newcastle-upon-Tyne
NE2 4HH
0191-222-7002
Application Deadline: 30 April 1996