Applications are invited for a 4-year PhD studentship based in the Department Pharmacology /Cambridge Stem Cell Institute (CSCI), University of Cambridge and the new AstraZeneca Discovery Centre at Cambridge. The student will be working on a collaborative project jointly supervised by Prof Walid Khaled in Pharmacology/CSCI, Dr Mark Albertella and Dr Andrew Reynolds at AstraZeneca.
The project, entitled "Therapeutic cancer prevention of hereditary cancers"' aims to test various therapeutic options to prevent the development of breast cancer in high-risk individuals. More details can be found in the attachments.
CandidateWe are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual capable of thinking and working independently. This position offers the unique opportunity to engage with a multidisciplinary team, including computational biologists and experimentalist from University of Cambridge and AstraZeneca. Prior experience with mouse model and/or single cell genomics is welcome.
Applicants should have, or shortly expect to obtain, a first or upper second-class degree from a UK university, or an equivalent standard from an overseas university, in a relevant subject such as cell or developmental biology, or biochemistry. These positions are open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (home fees) or can augment the funds to cover the extra costs associated with international student fees through scholarships or funding schemes. Students will not be allowed to supplement fees via self-funding. Full details of the University's entrance requirements and scholarships are specified on the following link: .
FundingFull funding covering Maintenance fees at £21,500 per annum and the University Composition Fee is provided for the studentship, with effect from 1 October 2025.
PhD in Pharmacology (Full-time)
Start Date: 1st October 2025
Project Supervisor: Walid T. Khaled
Project Title: AZ funded non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) in "Therapeutic cancer prevention of hereditary cancers"
Research Proposal: Please add the project abstract listed above
Applications should include:
Two academic references Transcript CV/resume Evidence of competence in English (If required - you can check using our tool) Statement of Interest outlining your suitability, why you are interested in a PhD in this area, your background and research interests. School of Biological Sciences - Widening Participation Questionnaire (applicants are asked to complete an additional form to provide contextual information about their previous study. Find out more about our use of contextual information here: .
Completed applications (with ALL supporting documentation and references) to be submitted via the portal by 23:59pm (midnight) UK time on Mon 11th November 2024 at the latest. Interviews will be scheduled for the end of November and early December.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We place major emphasis on the importance of teamwork and an enjoyable work environment as a foundation for performing internationally leading research. This will allow the student to acquire cutting edge research methodologies in a supportive environment, where they can focus on making the best possible scientific progress.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
