PCOS - understanding subtypes, natural history and pregnancy complications

PCOS is the most common endocrine condition in reproductive aged women affecting 170M or 12% of women. As the world leader in PCOS, I have led a research program over 20 years and have led the International Guidelines, Research Road Map and am leading the name change initiative. Clinical expertise in this condition is relatively limited and the opportunity to become an expert in the area offers research and clinical opportunities. The PCOS Global Research Road Map priorities include understanding subtypes and natural history, and endocrine mechanisms and prevention of pregnancy complications in PCOS. The subtypes and varied natural history are poorly understood limiting personalised care. The pregnancy complications are far higher in PCOS. Whilst these are endocrine mediated (insulin, androgens and AMH) the nuanced understanding of the mechanisms is limited. Clinical risk stratified pathways and prevention strategies are also a key priority. We are now offering two PhDs in PCOS including: - defining the different subtypes and natural history of the condition - improving outcomes in PCOS and pregnancy across biomarkers/ endocrine mechanisms, risk prediction and prevention strategies Here we can provide large patient cohorts for new data collection, multiple existing large data assets including from RCTs, biobank/ biomarkers, statistical training and support, and national and international networks, to explore these important and prioritised research questions and to translate outcomes. Applicants are guaranteed a scholarship and top up as well as exposure to world recognised clinical endocrine services and conference funding with the preferred candidates being an endocrinologist or advanced trainee. This is only open to domestic students. Expertise gained will include in PCOS/reproductive women's health, leadership and diverse research methods including biomarkers, statistics, clinical trials and implementation/ healthcare systems change. Students will join a dynamic team with over 30 PhD students and will learn diverse skills. Unique aspects include training and experience in translation of evidence into healthcare improvement. Mentoring and supervision is provided by Prof Helena Teede, A/Prof Anju Joham and Dr Jillian Tay and include opportunities to visit and be mentored by other global experts. HT has had 65 PhD students with almost all completing and has been awarded the University VC prize for supervision based on student nominations.