PhD Studentship: Mechanisms of Resistance to KRAS Inhibition in Pancreatic Cancer
Explore novel mechanisms of resistance to KRAS inhibitors in pancreatic cancer using advanced genetic and bioinformatics approaches.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in cancer biology, molecular biology, or related fields, who are eager to work with mouse models, CRISPR, and advanced sequencing technologies to address a critical challenge in pancreatic cancer treatment.
Overview
This PhD studentship at the University of Cambridge’s Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute focuses on understanding how pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) develops resistance to KRAS inhibitors. Led by Dr. Giulia Biffi, the project will investigate both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms of resistance, particularly the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts and genetic heterogeneity within tumours. The successful candidate will employ a multidisciplinary approach, combining mouse models, CRISPR techniques, single-cell RNA sequencing, and spatial transcriptomics to uncover actionable vulnerabilities. The research aims to inform the development of combination therapies to overcome resistance, offering potential breakthroughs for PDAC patients. The project is ideal for candidates passionate about cancer biology and translational research with a strong interest in experimental and computational techniques.
What you'll do
- Develop and validate genetically heterogeneous PDAC models to study resistance mechanisms to KRAS inhibitors.
- Conduct in vivo CRISPR experiments to manipulate cancer-associated fibroblasts and assess their impact on resistance.
- Perform single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to analyze intra-tumour heterogeneity and stromal interactions.
- Employ multiplex immunofluorescence and flow cytometry to characterize cellular responses to KRAS inhibition.
- Collaborate with computational biologists to analyze large-scale genomic and transcriptomic datasets.
- Prioritize PDAC genotypes with preliminary evidence of resistance mechanisms for focused investigation.
- Present findings at national and international conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cancer Biology, or Biomedical Sciences.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency required for academic communication and collaboration.
Instruction: English
- Proven experience working with mouse models, including surgical techniques and husbandry.
- Familiarity with tissue culture, including cell lines and organoid systems.
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry.
- Experience with CRISPR-based genetic editing or related gene manipulation techniques.
- Strong background in cancer biology or related biomedical research.
- Open to both UK and international applicants.
- Applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK (visa requirements may apply).
- No specific age or residency restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16
Applicants must apply through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal, selecting the PhD in Cancer Research programme. Ensure the intended start date is set to October 2027. The application should include all required documents and demonstrate eligibility to live and work in the UK.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter explaining research interest and suitability for the project
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Two reference letters
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
Giulia Biffi· Supervisor
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