PhD Studentship: How Hematopoietic Transcription Factors and Epigenetic Coregulators Shape Gene Regulatory Networks in Immune Cell Development

Overview

A four-year PhD studentship is available within the Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences at the University of Birmingham. This competition-funded opportunity operates through the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership and is supported by Wellcome Trust funding. The selected student will join the research group of Dr Tianyi Zhang and will also be jointly supervised by Dr Rui Monteiro.

The research program focuses on investigating how hematopoietic transcription factors and epigenetic coregulators shape gene regulatory networks during immune cell development. Specifically, the project examines the transcription factor Ikaros, which plays a vital role in B and T cell development and functions as a tumor suppressor in leukemia. The research aims to uncover molecular interfaces mediating key interactions, dissect how Ikaros partners with epigenetic coregulators to influence the chromatin landscape, and determine the impact of Ikaros mutants using a zebrafish model.

Who can apply

This position is open to UK, EU, and international students. Applicants are required to hold a first-class or upper second-class honors undergraduate degree, along with a master degree and or relevant research experience in fields such as biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatics. Candidates must possess a proven research track record suited to their career stage, strong analytical capabilities, communication skills, and an enthusiasm for collaborative research.

What you get

The studentship covers UK tuition fees and provides a stipend at the standard UKRI rate. For international students attending the University of Birmingham, the fee difference is covered by university funding. The program offers comprehensive training in biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics, genomics, and the application of cellular, cancer, and zebrafish model systems.

Requirements

Applicants need to demonstrate suitable academic qualifications and research background in relevant scientific disciplines. Essential personal and professional attributes include analytical strength, communication skills, and dedication to collaborative scientific inquiry.

How to apply

Candidates should submit informal inquiries accompanied by a curriculum vitae directly to Dr Tianyi Zhang via email. Official applications must be completed through the designated online channels provided by the university and the training partnership.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-11-23.