DPhil Studentship in Learning and Controlling Cellular Dynamics
University of Oxford
United Kingdom
Apply by 02 Dec 2026
About This Opportunity
University of Oxford offers DPhil Studentship in Learning and Controlling Cellular Dynamics in Oxford, focused on control theory, synthetic biology and cellular dynamics.
The University of Oxford Department of Engineering Science offers a DPhil research studentship investigating how cellular dynamics can be modelled, learned and controlled. The advertised project sits at the interface of control engineering and synthetic biology, with supervisors Professors Harrison Steel and Antonis Papachristodoulou. Possible research directions include mathematical models for engineered cell behaviour, automatic feedback design, microbial systems and laboratory automation. The research aims to connect quantitative theory and experiments to controllable living systems, with the balance of methods refined during doctoral study.Candidates should have a first-class or strong upper-second undergraduate degree or equivalent in engineering, materials science, computer science, physics, biology/biotechnology, chemistry/biochemistry, mathematics or another relevant discipline and strong English communication. The planned start is October 2027. Compensation or funding: Home tuition fee coverage plus approximately GBP 21,805 annual maintenance stipend for 3.5 years; overseas fee support is conditional. Stated appointment or programme length: 3.5 years. Application timing: 2 December 2026 at 12:00 noon GMT.Who This Opportunity Is Best Suited For: Applicants who combine quantitative methods, programming or control theory with curiosity about microbial biology are particularly aligned, though the call accepts entry from multiple physical and life-science disciplines.Potential Challenges / Who May Find It Less Suitable: Funding covers Home-rate tuition and stipend; international applicants are not automatically guaranteed the international fee difference and should contact supervisors first. The multidisciplinary work requires willingness to move beyond prior disciplinary training.Overall Opportunity Assessment: The project’s distinguishing feature is coupling the design of biological systems to feedback control and quantitative modelling, with explicit conditional funding restrictions by fee status.
Control theory, synthetic biology and cellular dynamics
Level PhD
Duration 3.5 years
Field Control Engineering and Synthetic Biology
Specialization Biotechnology
Organization Type University
Funding & Compensation
Amount GBP 21,805 / Per Year
Funding Type Stipend
Period Per Year
Tuition Coverage Partially Covered
Stipend Yes
Requirements
- Education: Candidates should have a first-class or strong upper-second undergraduate degree or equivalent in engineering, materials science, computer science, physics, biology/biotechnology, chemistry/biochemistry, mathematics or another relevant discipline and strong English communication.
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DPhil Studentship in Learning and Controlling Cellular Dynamics in Oxford employer: Laplace Expert Ltd
The University of Exeter is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of Digital Humanities. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities and resources to enhance your skills while working on impactful projects like the reconstruction of Florence's Palazzo Medici. Located in a beautiful and historic city, the university provides a stimulating environment for research and creativity, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
