Call for Applications: Europa Donna Malta Ph.D. scholarship in breast cancer research 

1. Applications are invited for a scholarship for a Ph.D. student to work on a project to study the regulation of phosphatase protein 2A in Breast Cancer. The scholarship is funded by the non-profit organisation Europa Donna Malta, facilitated by the Research Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT) of the University of Malta. The project is coordinated by the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery under the supervision of Prof. Godfrey Grech (Department of Pathology) and Prof. Therese Hunter (Department of Physiology and Biochemistry).
2. Applicants must be in possession of a Master of Science Degree, ideally in Biomedical Sciences, obtained subsequently to the completion of a first cycle qualification, and shall be eligible for Ph.D. studies at the University of Malta in terms of the applicable regulations and bye-laws. Familiarity with structure of proteins, and previous experience in cloning, protein assays and protein complex analysis will be considered assets.
3. The selected candidate is expected to enrol in the University of Malta’s Ph.D. programme on a full-time basis and conduct research in breast cancer. The award is for a maximum of three years and can be taken up as soon as Senate approves the Ph.D. application based on the recommendations received by the Faculty Board (Medicine and Surgery) and the Doctoral Academic Committee.
4. This scholarship shall provide a basic maintenance allowance of €12,000 per annum for the full-time Ph.D. student and covers a period of three years. The scholarship shall also provide a maximum of €4,000 to cover publications and conferences but will not cover the annual enrolment fee. The maintenance allowance will not be provided during a suspension and/or extension of studies. Non-EU/EEA nationals can apply for the Tuition Fee waiver Scholarship offered by the UM once they commence their studies, which may provide for a 40% up to 100% tuition fee waiver to deserving students. Other terms and conditions apply.
5. International candidates are advised to familiarise themselves with information available on the website of the International Office when applying, particularly to the sections concerning English Language requirements, visas and e-residence permit conditions and requirements. The scholarship does not cover all the costs related to studying and living in Malta, and international candidates will need to provide assurance that they have the funds available to cover their stay and studies in Malta.
6. Applicants should submit their letter of application by not later than Friday, 1 September 2023 by e-mail to scholarships.doctoralschool@um.edu.mt together with a copy of their curriculum vitae, and a scanned copy of their certificates. The scholarship is intended to support students who have clear goals for their future and applicants are expected to explain how they believe doctoral research will allow them to shape their plans after 'graduation'. Applicants are expected to declare any special attributes and accomplishments that they think make them deserving of the scholarship. Late applications will not be considered.
7. The selection procedure will involve: 
   

   a. Scrutiny of qualifications and experience claimed and supported by testimonials and/or certificates (copies to be included with the application); 

   b. Shortlisting; and 

   c. An interview and/or extended interview.

   The selection panel will make the final decision on successful candidates based on academic excellence and research potential. 
   

8. Further information may be obtained by contacting Prof. Godfrey Grech.

Terms and conditions 

The award may not be held concurrently with another major award for the same purpose. The award holder may not engage in employment which is likely to interfere with the progress of their research and must seek the permission of Senate, on the recommendation of the Faculty Doctoral Committee, the Board and the Doctoral Academic Committee before engaging in any employment. The Faculty Doctoral Committee must be kept informed about the nature and extent of their employment commitments throughout their period of study.

The award holder should abide by all applicable regulations and policies of the UM in force during the course of studies and will be required to provide progress reports on an annual basis (normally in May) to the Faculty Doctoral Committee as required by University regulations and procedures. At the end of tenure, a final report must be submitted covering what has been achieved.

The Doctoral School requests that the award holder acknowledges the assistance of Europa Donna Malta and the Research Innovation and Development Trust of the University of Malta in any publications arising wholly or partially from the award.

The Doctoral School, August 2023