PhD Studentship: Turning the Malaria Parasite's Protein Degradation Machinery Against It

Overview

The Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge offers a PhD studentship titled Turning the Malaria Parasite's Protein Degradation Machinery Against It. Supervised by Professor Katerina Artavanis-Tsakonas and co-supervised by Laura Itzhaki from the Department of Pharmacology, the research focuses on harnessing the ubiquitin system in Plasmodium falciparum. The project combines parasite genetics, biochemistry, and chemical biology to develop novel strategies for antimalarial drug development and tools for discovering new parasite biology.

Who can apply

This opportunity is available exclusively to candidates who qualify for UK home fees. Applicants must hold, or expect to obtain, the equivalent of a UK upper second-class honours 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 interview.

What you get

The studentship is fully funded for four years starting from October 2027. The financial support covers the student stipend at the current Research Council rate along with the home university fees.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete online application through the University's Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology under course code BLPA22. A complete application requires all supporting documents, including two academic references, to be submitted by the closing date. Candidates need to quote reference PK49372 or reference PK51394 on their application and in any related correspondence. Furthermore, applicants must 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.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2nd December 2026. The studentship work commences in October 2027.