Hedgehog signalling in unconventional T cells

The Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI) is a joint venture between the Charity, Cancer Research UK, and the University of Cambridge. The Institute has excellent state-of-the-art facilities and research ranges from basic cancer biology and computational biology through to translational research and clinical application. Graduate students play a pivotal role in the continuing success of our research programmes and gaining a studentship in the Institute is an excellent opportunity to start a research career in an environment committed to training outstanding cancer research scientists of the future. For further information, go to: https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/jobs-and-studentships/postgraduate-study

Dr Maike de la Roche wishes to appoint a student to work on the project entitled: Hedgehog signalling in unconventional T cells. For further information about the research group, including their most recent publications, please visit their website: https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/research-groups/de-la-roche-group

Project description: γδ T cells are unconventional T cells that combine adaptive features with rapid innate-like functions and can have striking anti-tumour effects - mainly due to their extensive cytotoxic capacity and IFN- γ production. However, tumour-promoting roles of the IL-17-producing γδ T cell subsets have recently emerged. Signalling pathways regulating these two very different subsets of γδ T cells are poorly understood.

The Hedgehog (Hh) signalling pathway has important roles during embryonic development and adult tissue maintenance. Our lab has found that cell-intrinsic Hh signalling is important for CD8 T cell killing. Whether Hh signalling is critical for the function of γδ T cells is not known. This project aims to elucidate how Hh signalling is orchestrated in γδ T cells and influences their development throughout the anti-tumour response in vivo.

The research project will involve the use of in vivo models, culture and genetic manipulation of primary immune cells, live cell imaging approaches, RNA-Sequencing, quantitative proteomics, FACS as well as basic cell biology and biochemistry.

Qualifications/skills: The ideal candidate would have a solid knowledge of immunology and experience in one or more of the areas mentioned above. He or she would be highly motivated to drive an independent research project.

How to apply: All applications need to be made using the University Applicant Portal. Please visit: https://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/cvcrpdmsc for further information about the course and to access the applicant portal.

To complete your on-line application, you need to provide the following:

Reference Request: The names and contact details of two academic referees who have agreed to act on your behalf.

Research: If you wish to be considered for more than one studentship, please enter the names of all of the supervisors you wish to consider your application in the ’Research summary’ text box. If you only wish your application to be considered by a single supervisor, then please enter their name in the ’Research Supervisor’ text box. Please describe your past ’Research experience’ in the appropriate text box.

Course Specific Questions: Your statement of interest (limit of 2,500 characters) should explain why you wish to be considered for the studentship and which qualities and experience you will bring to the role. Please also state how you learned of the studentship.

Supporting Documents: Please upload your CV (PDF file), which should include a list of the examinations taken at undergraduate level and if possible, your examination results.