AstraZeneca Non-Clinical PhD Studentship in Next-generation TPD for Oncology
Explore ubiquitin-independent targeted protein degradation for oncology applications through a collaborative PhD studentship.
Best for:Best for biology or biochemistry graduates with a strong interest in cell biology, targeted protein degradation, and oncology research.
Overview
The Department of Pharmacology at the University of Cambridge, in partnership with AstraZeneca, offers a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship focused on developing novel targeted protein degradation platforms. The successful candidate will investigate Midnolin biology to enable ubiquitin-independent protein degradation and design innovative tools directed at oncology targets. The research will be conducted within Dr Catherine Lindon's laboratory alongside an expert industrial and academic supervisory team. Applicants are expected to work independently, demonstrate a strong background in biochemistry or cell biology, and participate actively in multidisciplinary scientific exploration.
What you'll do
- Investigate the endogenous regulation and cellular dynamics of Midnolin across time and space.
- Develop screening campaigns to discover cellular binders that harness the endogenous Midnolin pool.
- Engineer custom exogenous Midnolin-based degrader tools for targeted oncology applications.
- Collaborate closely with academic supervisors at the University of Cambridge and industrial mentors at AstraZeneca.
- Maintain rigorous experimental records, analyze complex biochemical data, and present research findings.
Requirements
Degree required: First or high 2:1 bachelor's degree from a UK university or international equivalent in a relevant subject
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Solid knowledge and practical experience in biochemistry
- Demonstrated background or strong interest in cell biology
- Ability to work independently and drive research objectives
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Open to Home fee status students meeting UK residency requirements
- Open to international students who can cover the difference in fees through external funding or scholarships
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-16
Submit your application through the University Application portal choosing the PhD in Pharmacology course and entering the project title. Upload a one-page motivation statement detailing your skills, research goals, and career aspirations instead of a standard research proposal. Quote reference PL51373 on all application materials.
- CV
- Motivation statement
- BSc transcripts
- Academic reference letters
Contact
Catherine Lindon· Principal Investigator
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