PhD Studentship: Cutting the Fat (RNA): Investigating the role of SNORD116 in RNA processing during adipocyte development

Primary supervisor - Dr James Smith

The development of adipocyte metabolism is crucial for the overall health of a population. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are a class of ncRNAs that are emerging as important regulators of developmental biology, capable of regulating the processing of RNA. In this project, the student will investigate how snoRNAs contribute to the metabolic development of adipocytes, and their roles in regulating RNA processing.

The student will use state-of-the-art gene edited pluripotent stem cells to gain new insights relating to the mechanisms involved in regulating adipocyte metabolism. Training will be provided in the areas of stem cell biology, differentiation, advanced flow cytometry, single cell sorting, metabolomics and long-read RNA-sequencing.

As well as the specific training detailed above, students will have access to high-quality training in scientific and generic skills, as well as access to a wide-range of seminars and training opportunities.

The project will be carried out at the Smith Lab at the Bob Champion Research and Education building, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia.

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2026 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 3,4 or 5 February 2026.

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/.

Entry requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

Mode of study

Full time

Start date

1 October 2026

Additional Funding Information

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD CASE studentship with Inspiralis Limited. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2025/6 stipend rate: £20,780), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship.

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