Scholarship for the PhD in Medical Sciences in the field of Epidemiology and Public Health

The PhD in Medical Sciences:

The University of Nicosia Medical School offers the degree PhD in Medical Sciences in Epidemiology and Public Health. The degree is awarded to students who successfully complete an independent research programme that breaks new ground in the chosen field of study. The PhD programme aspires to empower students to become independent researchers, thus advancing innovation and development.

The Research Project:

We are currently inviting applications through a competitive process for high calibre candidates to apply for one PhD Scholarship for a project in the field of Epidemiology and Public Health. The successful candidate will enrol on the PhD programme in Medical Sciences and will work under the Supervision of Dr Elena Critselis, Associate Professor in Epidemiology and Public Health, Head of the Department of Primary Care and Population Health, and Msc in Health Services Administration (MSc in HSA) Program Director at the University of Nicosia Medical School.

Project Description:

Research Project Title: Efficacy of dietary supplement use in cancer survivorship care: Meta-analysis for guiding evidence-based patient care.

Background, rationale and objectives: Current nutritional management guidelines for cancer survivors aim to support long-term cancer survivors through the adoption of a healthful diet, a physically active lifestyle, and healthy weight management. Dietary supplement use in cancer survivors is an emerging controversial concern since conclusive evidence supporting its efficacy in cancer survivorship is lacking. The successful candidate will conduct a two-part project for evaluating the efficacy of dietary supplement use in cancer survivors so as to guide evidence-based patient care. Specifically, for the first part of the project, the successful candidate will conduct meta-analyses in prospective cohort studies and/or randomized clinical trials for assessing the efficacy of dietary supplement use in cancer survivors. For the second part of the project, the successful candidate will assess the current evidence levels for further guiding evidence-based dietary supplement use in cancer survivorship care.

The Scholarship:

The Scholarship will have a duration of three to four years and will cover:

  • The tuition fees for the PhD programme which are €13,500 in total for the first 3 years and €1,500 for year 4.

Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Eligible candidates should hold (or hold by the time that the programme is expected to commence i.e. October 2022) a recognised degree (a Bachelor’s degree (BSc) or a degree equivalent for entry to a Master’s Degree, preferably in Dietetics or Nutritional Sciences, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Public Health and/or related Health Sciences field) and a Master’s degree (MSc or MPH, preferably in Dietetics or Nutritional Sciences, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Public Health and/or Health Sciences related field) or a Doctor of Medicine degree (e.g. MBBS or MD degree).
  • Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in using Statistical and/or Meta-analytic software (i.e. SPSS, SAS, STATA, CMA, and/or R software)
  • Candidates with demonstrated academic and/or professional experience in the fields of nutritional support for cancer prevention and/or care will be preferred.

Application for the PhD Scholarship:

Candidates should submit an online application through this link and upload the following supporting documents:

  • A cover letter clearly stating that they apply for the PhD Scholarship in the field of Epidemiology and Public Health for the Research Project ‘Efficacy of dietary supplement use in cancer survivorship care: Meta-analysis for guiding evidence-based patient care.’
  • Copies of the applicant’s qualifications/degree(s) – the application can be assessed with scanned copies, but certified true copies must be provided if the candidate is successful and prior to enrolment on the PhD programme.
  • Copies of the applicant’s transcript(s) – the application can be assessed with scanned copies, but certified true copies must be provided if the candidate is successful and prior to enrolment on the PhD programme.
  • Proof of English language proficiency such as IELTS with a score of 7 overall and with a minimum score of 7 in writing or TOEFL iBT with a score of 94 overall and a minimum score of 27 in Writing. Other internationally recognized English language qualifications might be considered upon review. Students from the UK, Ireland USA, Canada (from English speaking provinces), Australia and New Zealand are exempt from the English language requirement.
  • Two reference letters, of which at least one should be from an academic.
  • A full Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Applications should be submitted by Friday, July 29, 2022 at 5pm. Only fully completed applications, containing all necessary supporting documents will be reviewed.

Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted and invited to an interview.