PhD Studentship: Comparative Innate Immune Sensing of Zoonotic Viruses
Investigate how cross-species differences in immune sensing influence viral infection and zoonotic emergence.
Best for:Best for aspiring virologists and immunologists with a strong background in molecular biology and an interest in zoonotic disease emergence.
Overview
The Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge offers a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship starting in October 2027 under the supervision of Professor Brian Ferguson. The project explores why certain viruses cause severe disease when crossing into new species while others do not, focusing on pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signalling and host-pathogen interactions. The successful candidate will apply molecular virology, immunology, and comparative methodologies to identify conserved and species-specific mechanisms governing cross-species infection. Applicants are expected to complete the doctoral project, submit supporting documents through the university portal, and fulfill all admission and language requirements.
What you'll do
- Conduct comparative analyses of pattern recognition receptor pathways across different host species.
- Investigate the molecular mechanisms of virus infection, adaptation, and zoonotic emergence using virological and immunological techniques.
- Examine how variation in pathogen sensing and immune regulation affects the outcomes of cross-species infections.
- Collaborate with research group members and integrate molecular virology with comparative biological approaches.
- Prepare research findings for presentation at scientific meetings and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Undergraduate honours or Master's degree in a relevant subject
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; must fulfill the University of Cambridge language requirements for admission by the time of interview
Instruction: English
- Background in molecular virology, immunology, or a closely related biological science
- Experience with comparative biology or cellular signaling research methodologies
- Strong academic record equivalent to a UK upper second-class (2.1) honours degree or higher
- Open only to candidates who qualify for UK Home fee status
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-02
Submit an online application through the University's Applicant Portal for the PhD in Pathology (BLPA22) and quote reference PK51376. Ensure all supporting documents, including a motivation statement, academic transcripts, and two academic references, are uploaded before the closing date. Referees must submit their reference letters prior to the deadline.
- CV
- Motivation statement
- Academic transcripts
- 2 academic references
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.