Hazel Satchell PhD Studentship

A PhD studentship is available to start in October 2023 at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR). The mission of CIMR is to determine the molecular mechanisms of disease in order to advance human health. Bringing together outstanding fundamental and clinical researchers, we focus on central pathways of cellular homeostasis and how they are disrupted in genetic and infectious disease. We have a particular focus on rare genetic diseases, an area of great unmet clinical need.  CIMR is known for its positive research culture.  

The Hazel Satchell Studentship is supported by a generous philanthropic gift and will focus on investigating the molecular cell biology of a group of genetic neurological conditions called hereditary spastic paraplegias, specifically a subtype that is caused by mutations in a mitochondrial protein called SPG7. This studentship is based in the group of Professor Evan Reid at CIMR and will fund a tax free stipend for 3.5 years (starting at £20,168/year), University fees at the home rate and laboratory consumables.  

The project will be carried out in collaboration with the laboratory of Professor Patrick Chinnery, a leading expert in mitochondrial biology. It will appeal to candidates who wish to have training in the state-of-the-art cell biological techniques that can be used to understand the molecular mechanisms of rare disease.  

The project aims to understand the functions of SPG7 in the molecular pathogenesis of axonal degeneration. The work will be at the interface between cell biology and molecular neuroscience, and will begin with functional genomic synthetic lethality screens using iPSC-derived neuronal models of SPG7, to identify key pathways involved in the disease. The lab employs an integrated approach that combines state of the art cell biology, biochemistry, proteomics, functional genomics and stem cell-derived neuronal modeling. We aim to produce high quality research that impacts our field and stands the test of time.

Candidates must have experience in molecular cell biology or molecular neuroscience, and must by the time of appointment have a BSc (at least 2i) in a biomedical science-related subject. Previous research experience, for example via a Master's degree, would be desirable, especially if in a topic related to understanding the molecular cell biological mechanisms of genetic disease. 

Applicants will work under the strategic supervision of Professors Reid and Chinnery to achieve the aims of this project. They will work closely with a second PhD student who is carrying out a complementary project looking at other aspects of SPG7 biology, so effective team working is an important requirement. They will work within a highly interactive group, have a friendly and collegiate outlook, good written and verbal communications skills, be well-organised and have the ability to work calmly to meet deadlines.

To be eligible to apply, students must:

• meet University of Cambridge 'Home student' admission requirements · have, or are be expected to attain at least an upper second class honours degree in a relevant biological sciences subject · command English language skills that meet the minimum requirements

There is a two-step application process for this studentship. First, candidates must download and email the completed application form and return it with a CV with the names and contact details of two academic references to Amanda Goldsmith, phdadmin@cimr.cam.ac.uk, by 12pm on Thursday 6th April 2023. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview in April.

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