RVC MAF Cancer Epidemiologist

Veterinary Epidemiology, Economics & Public Health Group

RVC MAF Canine Cancer Epidemiologist

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in dogs and Golden Retrievers have been identified at increased risk for a number of cancers. Over the last decade, Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) has established a lifetime cohort of Golden Retrievers (GRLS) in the US. This cohort is now nearing the end of its life and offers an unrivalled opportunity to evaluate the frequency and lifestyle risk factors for a range of canine cancers. In the UK, VetCompass has undertaken a number of cancer epidemiology studies. To date though, no VetCompass study has specifically evaluated the risks of cancer in Golden Retrievers. This study aims to evaluate the frequency and animal and lifestyle risk factors for major cancers in Golden Retrievers within the GRLS and contextualise these findings in the wider canine population within VetCompass.

This post aims to develop and deliver a canine cancer epidemiology programme working with canine epidemiological data within the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) Golden Retriever Lifetime Study (GRLS) and VetCompass. The position holder will coordinate data management and analysis of canine cancer epidemiology data within these two settings, undertake analyses and produce subsequent research papers. Additionally, they will collaborate directly within the VetCompass team and contribute to VetCompass’s wider management. Based at the RVC Potters Bar campus within the VEEPH group, the MAF VetCompass Cancer Epidemiologist will.

• Lead the canine cancer epidemiology programme, including contributing to study design, data management and interrogation of MAF Golden Retriever cohort data and VetCompass canine cancer data.
• Undertake study statistical analyses and produce the scientific papers.
• Supervise Master of Research students undertaking canine cancer epidemiological research
• Contribute and support the wider work associated with the GRLS.
• Promote the wider engagement with practices and key collaborating partners to maintain and develop the awareness and impact of VetCompass.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to lead this interesting project. The successful candidate will:

• Have a PhD in epidemiology or related science and research experience.
• Demonstrate experience of epidemiology and statistical analysis, with some experience of working with large databases.
• Have good communication and scientific writing skills.
• Be self-motivated and able to work collaboratively in a team.

This project will be full time for 3 years commencing in June 2023 or soon after and will be based at RVC's Hawkshead campus. For further information or to discuss informally please contact Prof Dave Brodbelt, dbrodbelt@rvc.ac.uk.