PhD Studentship: Research Studentship in Control & Engineering Biology Project: Learning and controlling cellular dynamics

Overview

The University of Oxford Department of Engineering Science offers a 3.5-year D.Phil. research studentship focused on learning and controlling cellular dynamics. The project takes place in the United Kingdom and investigates questions intersecting control theory, machine learning, engineering, and biology. Depending on the direction developed with the successful candidate, the work may involve building experimental tools like automated microscopy, microfluidics, and light-controlled gene expression, or designing feedback control strategies and mathematical models of cellular behavior. Applications for these investigations include bacterial physiology and the reliability and productivity of biological manufacturing.

What you get

The successful candidate receives a full award covering course fees at the level set for Home students, alongside a tax-free maintenance grant stipend provided at approximately £21,805 per annum for the first year. This financial support continues at at least this amount for a further two and a half years, spanning a total duration of 3.5 years.

Requirements

Applicants need a first class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours or an equivalent qualification in Physics, Engineering, Biology, or another relevant discipline. Candidates must also demonstrate a clear interest in engineering or understanding biological systems, motivation to learn beyond their existing discipline, and excellent written and spoken English communication skills. While not mandatory, desirable skills include programming, data analysis, mathematical modelling, control theory, machine learning, molecular biology, microbiology, synthetic biology, bioprocess engineering, microscopy, microfluidics, instrumentation, or experimental automation.

Who can apply

This studentship is fully open to UK students, covering home fees and a stipend. There may be flexibility to support international students as well; international applicants should contact the supervisor to check if this flexibility is available for them.

How to apply

Candidates must submit a graduate application form and meet the graduate admissions criteria, quoting the reference code 27ENGCO_JL in all correspondence and on the application form. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Lugagne via email.

Key dates

The application deadline is noon on 2 December 2026. The expected start date for the position is October 2027.