PhD Studentship: Exploring Functional Effects of Dysregulated MicroRNA-mediated Cellular Pathways in Malignant Germ Cell Tumours

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Cambridge is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in the Department of Pathology, starting October 2027, to investigate functional effects of dysregulated microRNA pathways in malignant germ cell tumours. Applicants should have UK upper 2.1 or higher and meet Home Fees requirements; language criteria must be fulfilled by interview time.

The project will involve in vitro studies, combination approaches with cisplatin, and collaboration with group leaders across a dynamic research

Qualifications

• Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject.
• Must meet language requirements by interview time.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in vitro studies on engineered malignant germ cell tumour cell lines.
• Study miRNA dysregulation and effects of replenishment/targeting approaches with cisplatin.
• Collaborate with Research Group Leaders and document results.

Education

UK upper 2.1 or higher in related subject

Job description

Location:Central Cambridge

Project title: Exploring functional effects of dysregulated microRNA-mediated cellular pathways in malignant germ cell tumours - Dr Matthew Murray.

Malignant germ cell tumours (GCTs) are characterised by microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation. Our studies to date have identified key tumour-suppressor and oncogenic candidate miRNAs warranting further study. We have already targeted/manipulated over-expressed miR-371~373 and miR-302/367 miRNAs and replenished downregulated miRNAs (let-7 and miR-100-5p/125b-5p) in malignant GCT cell lines with phenotypic and genotypic effects. This project will extend those observations in engineered inducible malignant GCT cell lines in vitro which can, e.g., express miR-100-5p/miR-125b-5p upon doxycycline treatment. Combination treatment using miRNA replenishment/targeting approaches with cisplatin will also be investigated, and novel agents targeting identified affected cellular pathways, prior to in vivo studies.

The Department of Pathology has an excellent reputation in pure biological and biomedical research and is offering fully funded* studentships from October 2027 to work with one of the Research Group Leaders in this large and vibrant Department.

Please check for eligibility details using this website: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees/what-my-fee-status

The studentships are available to students who qualify for UK HOME FEES ONLY.

Funding will cover the student's stipend at the current Research Council rate and Home University Fees. The studentship will be funded for 4 years from October 2027.

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject. The studentship is open to those eligible for the Home rate of University fees.Additionally, the Department requires that by the time of interview all potential students must have fulfilled the language requirements for admission. (http://www.graduate.study.cam.uk/courses/directory/blpapdpth/requirements)

Please also explain your motivation why you wish to pursue a PhD in this area, outline your research interests and background, and describe the qualities and experience you will bring to the role.

Applications from ineligible candidates will not be considered.

Further information about the course can be found on our website.

Closing date: 2nd December 2026.

Please quote reference PK51398 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Funding will cover the student's stipend at the current Research Council rate and Home University Fees.