PhD Studentship: Exploring Functional Effects of Dysregulated MicroRNA-mediated Cellular Pathways in Malignant Germ Cell Tumours

Overview

The University of Cambridge Department of Pathology is offering a PhD studentship titled exploring functional effects of dysregulated microRNA-mediated cellular pathways in malignant germ cell tumours. Malignant germ cell tumours are marked by microRNA dysregulation, and prior studies have identified key tumour-suppressor and oncogenic candidate miRNAs. Previous work has manipulated overexpressed miRNAs and replenished downregulated miRNAs in malignant germ cell tumour cell lines. The project will extend these observations in engineered inducible malignant germ cell tumour cell lines in vitro that can express specific miRNAs upon doxycycline treatment. The research will also investigate combination treatments using miRNA replenishment or targeting approaches with cisplatin, along with novel agents targeting affected cellular pathways, prior to conducting in vivo studies.

Who can apply

This opportunity is available exclusively to students who qualify for UK home fees. Applicants must hold or expect to obtain the equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject. Potential students must also fulfill the language requirements for admission by the time of the interview.

What you get

The studentship is fully funded for four years starting from October 2027. Funding covers the student stipend at the current Research Council rate as well as home university fees.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a completed application that includes all supporting documents and two academic references. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that referees submit their references before the closing deadline. Candidates need to explain their motivation for pursuing a PhD in this area, outline their research interests and background, and describe the qualities and experience they will bring to the role. Applicants must quote reference PK51398 on their application and in any correspondence regarding the vacancy.

How to apply

All applications must be submitted online through the University's Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology using the code BLPA22.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2nd December 2026. The studentship runs for 4 years starting from October 2027.