Wellcome Trust 4-year PhD in Dynamic Molecular Cell Biology in Bristol

Our Dynamic Molecular Cell Biology 4-Year PhD Programme trains students to investigate dynamic mechanisms from molecular through to organismal level using cutting edge imaging technologies combined with biochemical and biophysical interrogation. Human genomics is rapidly identifying gene mutations and changes in gene expression that cause disease. However, the identification of genes is not sufficient to explain the disease process. It is important to understand the functions of the genes underlying a disease: from a molecular level through to roles in cells and tissues/organisms. Only then can we truly understand the aetiology of human disease and design rational therapeutic and regenerative routes to treat patients. Thus, the development of new therapies for human diseases relies upon molecular and structural cell biologists who can determine the functions of genes associated with human disease.

The programme

We aim to train PhD students in an environment of scientific excellence where they study fundamental, applied and translational molecular and cell biology in the context of human health and disease. Our PhD programme brings together the skills and expertise of 30 internationally recognised molecular cell biologists. For full details of supervisors and their areas of research, see the website.

The programme offers training in a wide range of molecular cell biology topics and techniques from analysing dynamic behaviour of cells in organisms through to studies of intracellular functions into single molecules and high-resolution electron microscopy. Our links with Bristol’s world-leading epidemiologists allow an unparalleled training in the analysis of cell biology in the context of the genetics of disease. Our goal is to enable students to embrace new technologies to investigate the structures and dynamic behaviour of molecules and cells and how these change in disease.

Our programme offers a unique training experience through its 1+3 structure.

In the first year, students undertake three laboratory-based research projects in different research areas. The first project is in a ‘cell biology’ laboratory wherein students gain experience in cell culture and wide-field/ confocal imaging alongside super-resolution imaging. The second is in a ‘disease/ model organism’ laboratory, enabling students to extend their skills into an in vivo applied context, and in techniques such as multi-photon imaging. The third project is in a ‘molecular’ themed laboratory, in which students gain skills in biochemical and biophysical methods including protein production, complex assembly, functional reconstitution, high-resolution electron microscopy and single molecular imaging. Students then choose one of these laboratories for their PhD research and write a PhD research proposal before starting their 3-year project.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We want to support diverse and inclusive work environments. We therefore welcome applications from individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender, or disability status. We welcome applications from individuals who have previously studied at any recognised Higher Education Institute and from a range of career paths, including individuals who have previously trained in the sciences and want to return to scientific research.

We particularly encourage applications from BAME* and mature (this is classed as 30+ years) individuals as these backgrounds are currently underrepresented within our student cohort. *Black, Asian and minority ethnic.

How to apply

Please apply online at www.bris.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/. The programme is listed under the Faculty of Life Sciences as the Wellcome 4-year PhD in Dynamic Molecular Cell Biology.

Please ensure you upload a CV including names and contact details of two referees by 11.59pm on Thursday 5^th January 2023. Note that there will be an online supplementary questionnaire for you to complete; instructions about how to do so will follow by email shortly after receipt of your application. Interviews will be conducted online in late January and early February.

The programme provides a generous stipend and PhD registration fees, research expenses, contribution towards travel and a contribution towards transferable-skills training.

Informal enquiries may be made to the programme directors: Professors Pete Cullen pete.cullen@bristol.ac.uk, Paul Martin paul.martin@bristol.ac.uk, Anne Ridley anne.ridley@bristol.ac.uk and Ian Collinson ian.collinson@bristol.ac.uk.