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

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. 

All applications should be made online via the University's Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22) via the above 'Apply' button. A completed application must be submitted by the closing date below. An application is only complete when all supporting documents, including the 2 academic references, are submitted. 

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure their referees submit their references before the closing date of the studentship.

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

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

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.ac.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.

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