AstraZeneca funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship in Improved 2A peptides for co-translational separation of a polyprotein

A four-year Cambridge–AstraZeneca PhD beginning 1 October 2027 investigates 2A peptide sequences that separate proteins during translation. The project aims to reduce ribosome stalling, drop-off and separation failure and optimise new sequences for biotechnology and cell-therapy applications. Work spans the Department of Pathology and AstraZeneca Discovery Centre, combining molecular biology with opportunities in bioinformatics and structural biology. Supervisors are Andrew Firth and Giovanni Ciotta.

Funding covers the University Composition Fee and maintenance expected to begin at approximately £23,805 per year. International-fee applicants must obtain additional scholarship or scheme funding for the fee difference; self-funding that difference is not permitted. Apply through the Cambridge Applicant Portal for PhD in Pathology (BLPA22) by 30 November 2026, including all supporting documents and two academic references.

First or upper-second-class UK degree, or overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject such as biochemistry, microbiology, cell biology or genetics. Home-fee eligibility or external scholarship/scheme funding for the international-fee difference is required; self-funding the difference is prohibited. Language requirements must be met by interview. The application, supporting documents, equal-opportunities form and two academic references must be complete by the deadline.