How Do Our Cells Modify Themselves to Protect Us from Diseases?
Supervisors:
Dr Aikaterini Gatsiou, Lancaster University
Prof Helen Walden, University of Glasgow
Dr Leonie Unterholzner, Lancaster University
Summary:
Are you inspired by recent Nobel Prizes in Physiology and Medicine for breakthroughs in RNA biology? This PhD project explores how our cells “escape” danger signals embedded in the genome, maintaining immune balance and protecting health. You will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, including high-resolution structural and single-molecule biophysics approaches, RNA analysis, functional studies in primary human cells, and artificial intelligence tools for data analysis.
These approaches will help you discover how RNA-based processes keep our immune system in check and safeguard healthy cell function.
You will receive a tailored and comprehensive training and mentorship, developing expertise in RNA biology, structural biology, immunology, AI-driven computational methods, data analysis, and scientific communication. You will also have opportunities to engage with industry and biotechnology networks, developing experience in applying research to real-world problems. By the end of your PhD, you will be equipped with a unique interdisciplinary skill set, preparing you for careers in academia, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical research of tomorrow, readying you to drive innovation in the booming fields of RNA therapeutics, structural biology, AI-driven biomedical research and immunology (e.g cancer immunotherapy, mRNA vaccines, etc).
This PhD is ideal for students interested in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, big data, and/or drug discovery.