PhD Studentship: Functional Effects of Dysregulated MicroRNA in Malignant Germ Cell Tumours
Explore the functional impacts of microRNA dysregulation in malignant germ cell tumours with a fully funded PhD in Cambridge.
Best for:Best for biology or biomedical sciences graduates with a strong interest in molecular biology, cancer research, and miRNA pathways.
Overview
This PhD studentship at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Pathology focuses on investigating how dysregulated microRNA (miRNA) pathways influence malignant germ cell tumours (GCTs). The project builds on prior research identifying key tumour-suppressor and oncogenic miRNAs, aiming to extend findings using engineered inducible malignant GCT cell lines. Investigations will include miRNA replenishment/targeting, combination treatments with cisplatin, and pathway-specific interventions, with plans for in vivo studies. The studentship is fully funded for four years, offering a stipend and tuition coverage for eligible candidates.
What you'll do
- Investigate the functional effects of dysregulated microRNA in malignant germ cell tumour cell lines using engineered inducible systems.
- Develop and apply miRNA replenishment/targeting approaches to modulate tumour-suppressor and oncogenic miRNAs.
- Combine miRNA interventions with cisplatin to assess synergistic effects on tumour cell viability and phenotype.
- Identify and validate novel agents targeting affected cellular pathways in vitro.
- Prepare for in vivo studies by translating in vitro findings into animal models.
- Conduct phenotypic and genotypic analyses to assess the impact of miRNA manipulation on tumour behaviour.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Master’s degree in a relevant subject (e.g., Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or related fields).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic study and research (no specific test score mentioned).
Instruction: English
- Strong background in molecular biology or related fields.
- Experience with cell culture techniques and molecular cloning.
- Familiarity with quantitative PCR, Western blotting, and other molecular biology assays.
- Ability to work with engineered cell lines and inducible expression systems.
- Proficient in data analysis and presentation of scientific results.
- Eligible for UK Home fees only.
- Must qualify for Home rate of University fees.
- Applicants must meet the language requirements for admission by the time of interview.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-02
Applications must be submitted online via the University of Cambridge’s Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22). Ensure all supporting documents, including two academic references, are submitted by the deadline. Applicants must also quote the reference PK51398 in their application and correspondence.
- CV
- Cover letter explaining motivation for pursuing a PhD in this area, research interests, background, and qualities/experience
- Two academic references
- Transcripts of previous degrees
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