At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a groundbreaking project using CRISPR and machine learning to enhance protein expression.
- Company: AstraZeneca and University of Cambridge collaboration with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Fully funded 4-year PhD, £21,500 stipend, and access to advanced training.
- Other info: Open to UK citizens and eligible overseas students; supportive research culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biomedical research while developing cutting-edge skills.
- Qualifications: First or upper second-class degree in a relevant subject; enthusiasm for learning is key.
The predicted salary is between 21500 - 21500 £ per year.
AstraZeneca-funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term)
Join to apply for the AstraZeneca-funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) role at Cambridge Service Alliance
Project title - Matchmaker: Prioritising the best cell line for expressing target proteins using CRISPR and machine learning.
Applications are invited for a fully funded 4-year PhD studentship based in the Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, and the new AstraZeneca Discovery Centre in Cambridge. The project will be jointly supervised by Dr Susanne Bornelöv (Biochemistry) and Dr Lukas Westlake (AstraZeneca), and the successful applicant will have the opportunity to work across both sites.
The project sits at the interface of cell line engineering, protein science and machine learning and you will receive advanced training in these areas while developing methods to accelerate protein expression for biomedical applications.
Project details: Protein expression and purification remain fundamental bottlenecks in biomedical research and drug discovery. Current approaches are time-consuming and often fail to express target proteins at sufficient levels. In this project, you will investigate whether mammalian cell lines can be genetically altered to enhance expression of challenging proteins. Moreover, you will determine whether the success of such alternations depends on protein family and on mRNA characteristics such as codon optimality.
You will construct a panel of engineered cell lines and collect high-throughput measurements of corresponding mRNA and protein levels for several protein targets. Ultimately, you will use these data to develop Matchmaker, a machine learning framework for matching novel protein targets with their optimal expression conditions. Altogether, this project will provide new insights into the mechanisms limiting expression of challenging proteins and how to overcome these barriers.
Candidate & eligibility: We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual able to think critically and to work both independently and as part of a team. You should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second-class degree in a relevant subject from a UK university, or equivalent standard abroad. Prior research experience, for instance in molecular biology, eukaryotic cell culturing and protein science would be a plus, but is not essential. Most important is that you are excited to learn new skills and grow as an independent researcher.
This position is open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (home fees), or are able to augment the funds to cover the extra costs associated with international student fees through scholarships or funding schemes. Students will not be allowed to supplement fees via self funding.
Funding: This four-year studentship covers University composite fees (at home fees rate), a stipend (£21,500/year) and dedicated consumables and travel budgets.
Application process: Apply for a PhD in Biochemistry via the University\'s Applicant Portal. Quote the project title and supervisor (Dr Susanne Bornelöv) and select Michaelmas Term 2026 (October 2026). Your application should include academic transcripts, CV (max two pages), statement of interest, and two academic references (submitted by the deadline).
Deadline: The closing date is 31st October 2025 with interviews held in November.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University values teamwork, diversity, and a supportive research culture, enabling students to thrive and achieve internationally recognised research excellence.
For informal enquiries, contact Dr Susanne Bornelöv (smb208@cam.ac.uk), or pg-entry@bioc.cam.ac.uk for questions about the application process.
Please quote reference PH47279 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
AstraZeneca-funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: Cambridge Service Alliance
AstraZeneca offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers through its fully funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship at the prestigious University of Cambridge. With a strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration, students will benefit from advanced training in cutting-edge areas such as CRISPR and machine learning, while being part of a supportive research culture that values diversity and inclusion. This role not only provides a competitive stipend and funding for research activities but also fosters personal and professional growth in a world-class academic environment.
Contact Details:
Cambridge Service Alliance Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land AstraZeneca-funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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We think you need these skills to ace AstraZeneca-funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Cambridge Service Alliance that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Cambridge Service Alliance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Cambridge Service Alliance does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Service Alliance
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Cambridge Service Alliance. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Cambridge Service Alliance's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Cambridge Service Alliance. This shows your passion for the industry!
