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PhD/MSc by Research: Molecular epidemiology of Human papillomavirus (HPV) in Sarawak, Malaysia
Brief synopsis:
Cervical cancer is the second killer of women in Malaysia after breast cancer. Cervical cancer is a preventable disease if detected earlier. Currently, annual cytological screening via Pap smear is recommended by the Ministry of Health, a project which existed since the 1960s but the current penetration rate is still remains below 50% with mostly returning patients. Cervical cancer is caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection to the cervix. The most prevalent HR-HPV genotypes reported in the West is HPV16 and HPV18 which are responsible for 70% of the invasive cervical cancer. Effective vaccine against HPV16 and HPV 18 is currently available.
In our preliminary study, the distribution of the HR-HPV genotypes in Kuching, Sarawak is distinct from the epidemiologic data obtained from the other parts of the world. This raises the question if the introduction of vaccines against HPV16 and HPV18 will benefit the local population as a whole as protection is genotype specific. Thus, it is crucial for us to elucidate the prevalence of the endemic HPV genotypes in Sarawak.
Objectives of the project: (1) to define the endemic HPV genotypes in Sarawak. (2) to study the molecular epidemiology of HPV in Sarawak (3). To determine the prevalence rate of HPV in the general population.
The candidate should have: -
- a Malaysian citizenship.
- preferable female.
- a BSc (hons) degree in microbiology, biomedical sciences, biotechnology or equivalent and have graduated with CGPA >3.0.
- good communication skills and proficient in both written and oral English and Malay. The ability to speak mandarin and other local dialects is an added advantage.
- own transport and willing to commute between sampling site and laboratory.
- must be willing to follow the medical outreach team into the rural [if required]
- experienced in basic molecular techniques.
- Successful candidate is to register as a MSc/PhD Student at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak [December 2018 or February 2019 intake] and apply for a scholarship.
Informal inquiries can be made to Dr Tan Cheng Siang [This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.] with a copy of your CV, relevant academic certificates, academic transcript and cover letter.
Dr Tan Cheng Siang
Centre for Tropical and Emerging Diseases,
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
Valid from 1st November 2018 until the position is filled.
