PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) - Malignant Germ Cell Tumours

About the role

The Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge is offering a fully funded PhD studentship (fixed term, 4 years from October 2027) in the project "Exploring functional effects of dysregulated microRNA-mediated cellular pathways in malignant germ cell tumours" led by Dr Matthew Murray. The department offers fully funded studentships from October 2027 to work with one of its Research Group Leaders.

Project overview

Malignant germ cell tumours (GCTs) are characterised by microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation. Previous work has identified tumour-suppressor and oncogenic candidate miRNAs and has manipulated over-expressed miR-371~373 and miR-302/367, and replenished downregulated let-7 and miR-100-5p/miR-125b-5p, in GCT cell lines. The project will extend these observations in engineered inducible GCT cell lines in vitro, such as lines expressing miR-100-5p/miR-125b-5p upon doxycycline treatment. It will also investigate combination treatment with miRNA replenishment or targeting and cisplatin, and novel agents targeting the affected pathways, before in vivo studies.

Required profile

• Applicants must qualify for UK Home fees only; applications from ineligible candidates will not be considered.
• 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.
• By the time of interview, applicants must have fulfilled the language requirements for admission.
• Applicants must explain their motivation, research interests and background, and the qualities and experience they will bring.

Application process

• Apply online through the University's postgraduate application portal for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22).
• A completed application includes all supporting documents, including two academic references, submitted by the closing date.
• Closing date: 2 December 2026; quote reference PK51398.

What we offer

• Funding covering the stipend at the current Research Council rate and Home University fees.
• Full funding for 4 years from October 2027.