(MCRC Non-Clinical) Unlocking the power of Geographic Information Systems for Breast Cancer Risk and Prevention

About the project

About the Project At least 30% of breast cancer risk is unexplained by current risk prediction algorithms which incorporate family history, personal history of benign breast disease, polygenic risk scores, breast density, hormonal and reproductive factors, lifestyle and demographic information. The relationships between risk factors for breast cancer are complex. Environmental risk factors for breast cancer have been proposed, but the evidence is less well developed and these factors are not routinely incorporated in risk prediction algorithms. In addition to significant disparities in the distribution of risk factors, there are also differences in access to risk prediction and early detection services in different locations. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can integrate health data with location-based information to enable us to identify patterns which might not otherwise be obvious and explore barriers to access for those who would benefit from targeted screening. We will initially use the Predicting Risk Of Cancer At Screening (PROCAS) database which provides rich questionnaire-based and genetic metadata for women in Greater Manchester. This can be overlaid on maps showing demographic and socioeconomic data, industrialisation, agricultural areas, major and congested roads and other sources of pollution. We will also incorporate maps showing hospitals, health centres and breast screening locations. AI-based analysis of this geo-spatial data will analyse associations which could potentially improve risk prediction. The proposed approach, in combination with information about screening and prevention uptake across the region, will also facilitate healthcare providers and public health organisations to target interventions more effectively in the community, improve resource allocation, and reduce disparities in access to preventive care. Once implemented, we will extend this approach to the wider population in Greater Manchester, and in future projects, explore similar factors in other cancers. Eligibility You must hold, or about to obtain, a minimum Upper Second Class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline. A related master’s degree would be an advantage International applicants (including EU nationals) must ensure they meet the academic eligibility criteria (including English language) before contacting potential supervisors to express an interest in their project. Eligibility information can be found on the University's Country Specific information page. Before you Apply Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application. How to Apply Apply directly via this link: https://tinyurl.com/577zjazd or on the online application portal, select MCRC PhD Programme as the programme of study. You may only apply for one project within this scheme. Please ensure that your application includes all required supporting documents: Curriculum Vitae (CV) Supporting Statement Academic Certificates and Transcripts Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Further details are available on our website: CRUK Manchester Centre PhD Training Scheme | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester Application Timeline Applications open: Monday, 5 October 2026 Application deadline: Monday, 23 November 2026 Interview date: Week commencing 11 January 2027 Start date: September 2027 Equality, diversity and inclusion are central to the University’s activities. The full statement can be found here: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/getting-started/equality-diversity-inclusion/

Research areas