Chartering the rules of RNA Immunology in human health and disease

Are you intrigued by the recent Nobel prizes in Medicine/Physiology on RNA research and immunology? The PhD project focuses on RNA modification enzymes, which “typeset” RNA molecules and play crucial roles in immune system regulation, positioning them as promising targets for innovative therapies. You will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, including RNAomics (tools for analyzing RNA molecule dynamics within cells) enhanced by computational methods and artificial intelligence, as well as human disease modelling involving modern cell and molecular biology techniques. These state-of-the-art techniques will allow you to uncover critical molecular insights into how RNA modification enzymes influence immune function in health and disease, developing our understanding of diseases without available cure. 

Throughout your PhD, you will receive comprehensive support and training in both established and emerging research techniques, ensuring that you are future-proofed for the evolving landscape of biomedical research in both academia and industry. Your work will have direct impact to autoinflammatory diseases, and potential for high-impact applications in heart disease, cancer, and other immune-associated human diseases. 

If you are inspired by cutting-edge breakthroughs in science and excited to develop a unique, competitive skill set within a supportive, diverse, and inclusive research environment, apply now to join us! You will benefit from a tailored career development plan and close collaboration between Dr Aikaterini Gatsiou’s and Dr. Leonie Unterholzner’s laboratories, two vibrant research laboratories at the Lancaster University’s Faculty of Health and Medicine, with a strong track record and commitment to mentoring PhD students. The successful candidate will be based at Lancaster University, ranked among the top 3 UK institutions for Biomedical Science and in the top 10 UK institutions overall, and will join the Department of Biomedical & Life Sciences, which has recognised expertise in immunity, cancer research, and molecular genetics. The Department is supported by state-of-the-art research facilities and works closely with Lancaster’s world-leading Data Science Institute, a key partner of the World Health Organization, utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning tools for data analysis and biomolecular research.  

Applicants should hold a minimum upper second-class honours degree in Biology or related discipline. A Masters degree is desirable. This project would suit candidates with interests in RNA research, computational biology, and immunology. 

For informal discussions and queries, please contact Dr Aikaterini Gatsiou a.gatsiou@lancaster.ac.uk 

To apply, please send your CV (max 2 pages) including the names of two referees and cover letter (outlining your interest in this PhD and qualifications) to Dr Aikaterini Gatsiou (a.gatsiou@lancaster.ac.uk)