PhD Basic Dental Sciences

University of Manchester

Our PhD/MPhil Basic Dental Sciences programme enables you to undertake a research project that will improve understanding of Basic Dental Sciences. Basic dental sciences is a large area covering craniofacial genetics, stem cell biology and craniofacial development. Craniofacial genetics We aim to understand the normal developmental mechanisms underlying craniofacial morphogenesis and how these are disturbed in a variety of birth defects. Group research has identified genetic mutations underlying craniofacial malformations, including Treacher Collins syndrome, Van der Woude syndrome, amelogenesis imperfecta, and dentine dysplasia. These findings have contributed to quality-of-life improvements as they have impacted directly on clinical management of affected families by providing the basis for genetic counselling internationally. Stem cell biology We use human embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and cancer-derived stem cells (CSCs) to study the function of adhesion molecules in development, tumorigenesis and cancer cell metastasis.

Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health