PhD Position in Radiation Biology and Nanomedicine for MSCA-DN \"MS-RADAM\" in London

MS-RADAM ("MultiScale phenomena in RAdiation DAMage") is a European Doctoral Network project funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme. The project brings together leading academic and industrial partners from eight European countries (Germany, France, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Sweden, Denmark and Georgia) to train a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers.

MS-RADAM aims to advance the understanding of key radiation-induced biodamage phenomena at the nano- and larger scales, with applications in particle therapy, radiotherapy, and radioprotection. These include the formation of DNA strand breaks by ionising radiation, DNA repair, radiosensitisation by metal nanoparticles, cell survival and radioresistance.

The MS-RADAM research programme combines state-of-the-art computational multiscale modelling (using DFT/TDDFT methods, collision theory, molecular dynamics, stochastic dynamics, Monte Carlo and analytical methods) and its thorough validation using advanced experimental techniques (such as mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, radiochemistry and radiobiology experiments with biomolecular and biological systems such as oligonucleotides, DNA origami, radiosensitising nanoparticles, living cells and multicellular targets).

MS-RADAM invites applications for a 36-month, full-time, fixed-term position as a Doctoral Candidate (DC). The successful candidate will be employed by University College London (UCL), United Kingdom, and enrolled in its PhD programme. UCL is one of the world's leading universities, known for its academic excellence, global outlook, and commitment to innovation. With a diverse, collaborative community and a strong focus on real-world impact, it offers an inspiring environment to grow and contribute.

At UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science we conduct pioneering research in healthcare delivery and technologies, with research spanning the full translational pathway, reflected in the multidisciplinary nature of our team.

The DC12 research project, entitled "Experimental validation of nanoparticle properties and microdistributions in radiosensitisation phenomena in cells", aims to understand how nanoparticle properties and intracellular location impact radiation damage, and study their potential to boost radiotherapy tumour damage and healthy tissue sparing. Nanoparticle intracellular microdistribution will be mapped and mechanisms of nanoparticle radiosensitisation will be elucidated (DNA damage and repair, production of reactive oxygen species, imaging of protein expression, clonogenic survival). The biological effect will be quantified and the potential utilisation of metallic nanoparticles for clinical radiotherapy will be investigated through modelling the therapeutic ratio improvements achievable via tumour-targeted nanoparticles. The experimental results will be input and compared with theoretical and computational modelling results through close collaboration with other partners within the MS-RADAM network.

In addition to specialised scientific training, the position offers extensive international mobility, secondments to partner organisations, and training in transferable skills such as research management, communication, and career development.

Requirements

• Hold a University Master's Degree (or equivalent) in Biological/Life Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, or Biomedical Science/Engineering or other related subject.
• Be available to start on 01.07.2026.
• Have excellent English language skills (both spoken and written).
• Be able to travel internationally on a regular basis, e.g. to attend regular project meetings, conferences and training activities.
• Be able to work in an international environment, be highly motivated and reliable, be able to meet strict deadlines.

Specific Requirements

• To be eligible for this position, candidates must comply with the MSCA mobility rule: you must NOT have lived or worked in the United Kingdom for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately prior to the recruitment date (01.07.2026).

How to Apply:

Please send the following documents as a single PDF file to k.ricketts@ucl.ac.uk before 15 April 2026:

• Your full CV
• A copy of the most recent diploma (Master's or equivalent)
• A copy of your marks and grades
• A letter of motivation
• Two letters of recommendation

Please include "MS-RADAM DC12 Application" in the email subject line. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Selection process

• Initial screening by the future supervisor and the host organisation team based on submitted documents.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview.
• Final selection determined through the interview process.

Evaluation criteria

• The candidate's CV and profile
• Graduation marks
• Relevance of the MSc thesis and other scientific outputs