Prof S Balasubramanian
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
This position will be primarily based in the Balasubramanian lab in the CRUK Cambridge Institute
The lab exploits both chemistry and biology to address fundamental mechanisms of genome function (http://www-balasubramanian.ch.cam.ac.uk). While many genetic determinants of cancer are known, alternative nucleic acid secondary structures and chemically modified DNA (or RNA) bases can be epigenetic features of nucleic acids that are important to normal biology and in oncogenesis. The project will explore chemical modifications as epigenetic features and how these influence secondary structure formation and function in the genome of normal and cancer cells. The scope of the project may include exploring the formation and dynamics of G-quadruplex structures and modified DNA bases in the genome and their roles in gene expression, DNA replication and genome stability. We have developed methods to show that G-quadruplexes are enriched in cancer-related genes and have a profound impact on transcription (e.g. Nature Genetics, 2016, 48, 1267-1272; Nature Biotechnology, 2015, 33, 877-881). We have also developed genome-wide mapping and sequencing of modified bases and are now exploring further base modifications (e.g. Genome Biology 2017, 18:23; Nature Chemical Biology, 2015, 11, 555-557).
The student will be highly motivated, capable of independent thought and have excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively. Ideally, the candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology and/or biochemistry. A good knowledge of genomics and the chemistry/chemical biology of nucleic acids is highly desirable.
Funding Notes
This studentship is funded by Cancer Research UK and includes full funding for University and College fees and in addition, a stipend of £19,000 per annum, initially for 3 years, with funding for a further year possible as required.
No nationality restrictions apply to this Cancer Research UK funded studentship. Applications are invited from recent graduates or final year undergraduates who hold or expect to gain a first/upper second class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject from any recognised university worldwide.
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