MPhil: Search for causes of acquired megaesophagus

A 1 year MPhil project is available for start in October 2026, in Dr An Vanhaesebrouck's lab at the department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge.

Funding is available to cover maintenance at the current BBSRC veterinary rate (GBP29600 per annum) for one year, with the possibility of extending to a 2 yr MSc. The student will be responsible for paying their own fees.

The Project:Is Myasthenia Gravis the Hidden Cause of Acquired  Megaoesophagus in Dogs? Acquired idiopathic megaesophagus is a serious and poorly understood condition in dogs. The esophagus becomes enlarged and loses its ability to move food into the stomach, causing regurgitation and a high risk of life-threatening aspiration pneumonia. While some cases are linked to autoimmune disorders such as myasthenia gravis, most remain unexplained, and there is currently no reliable cure. The student will analyze muscle tissue from dogs with and without megaesophagus, identify immunological and molecular markers in serum and tissue that could serve as new treatment targets, and contribute to developing diagnostic assays for clinical use. This work combines comparative neuromuscular research with translational potential for both veterinary and human medicine.

The student will learn skills such as: Laboratory techniques (molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence),data analysis and interpretation, grant writing and scientific communication, international collaboration with leading institutions (Oxford and Edinburgh University, Royal Veterinary College, UC Davis, and others).

This is an ideal opportunity for a curious, motivated individual who wants to explore the basic neurophysiopathology of a poorly understood disease, contribute to research that could improve outcomes for dogs and potentially inform human medicine alike, and build a strong network of collaborators across the UK and internationally.

Future opportunities: If the student demonstrates strong interest and aptitude, we will seek funding for a third-year extension leading to a PhD.

Candidate: Applicants should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a good 2.1 degree in a relevant discipline.

How to apply: Contact the Supervisor to discuss the project before submitting an official application. Please find this project on the departmental website : click the 'Apply' button above. 

More info on applying here: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/cvvtmpvet

Please quote reference PP48236 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.

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