PhD Studentship: Exploring the Role of Complex Repetitive Genomic Aberrations and Their Potential for Therapeutic Opportunities in Childhood Cancers
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
General Description
Newcastle University is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on investigating the role of complex repetitive genomic aberrations and their potential therapeutic implications in childhood cancers. The project will commence in September 2026 and will be conducted within a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.
Childhood cancers remain genetically and clinically heterogeneous and continue to cause significant morbidity, representing the leading cause of disease-related mortality in children in the United Kingdom. While survival rates for some cancers, such as leukemia, have improved significantly due to advances in understanding the genomic alterations that drive these diseases, many paediatric cancers—particularly central nervous system tumours and other solid tumours—still have poor outcomes.
Emerging research indicates that complex genomic rearrangements occurring in highly repetitive regions of the genome play a critical role in cancer development and progression. These regions are difficult to analyse using traditional sequencing approaches, making them a relatively unexplored area in cancer genomics. Examples include genomic rearrangements observed in conditions such as DUX4-rearranged leukemia, which highlight the importance of investigating these genomic features to uncover novel mechanisms of disease.
This PhD project will focus on identifying and characterising complex genomic aberrations within repetitive regions of the genome that contribute to childhood cancers. The successful candidate will work with advanced genomic technologies and integrate laboratory and computational approaches to detect novel genetic variants and understand their functional significance. The research aims to generate new insights into tumour biology and identify potential therapeutic opportunities that could improve outcomes for paediatric cancer patients.
The student will receive training in cutting-edge genomic techniques and bioinformatic analyses, gaining practical experience in both laboratory experimentation and computational biology. The project will also provide opportunities to collaborate with researchers and specialists across multiple disciplines, contributing to a broader research programme dedicated to improving the understanding and treatment of childhood cancers.
The studentship is funded by the Newcastle University Futures Fund and will be supervised by Dr Sarra Ryan, Dr Thomas Nicholls, and Dr Robbie Bain. The position is offered on a full-time basis for four years and will support the candidate in developing expertise in cancer genomics, translational research, and advanced genomic analysis.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a minimum 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
A Master’s degree with a strong research training component is considered advantageous.
Candidates whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically with an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall and a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or an equivalent qualification.
International applicants may require an ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate prior to obtaining a visa and commencing study.
Required Expertise/Skills
Academic background in molecular biology, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, cancer biology, or a related field.
Strong interest in cancer genomics and translational biomedical research.
Ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative research teams.
Analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to laboratory research and data analysis.
Interest in developing laboratory and computational approaches for analysing genomic data.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Salary Details
Fully funded PhD studentship covering tuition fees at the UK home rate.
Annual stipend aligned with the UKRI doctoral stipend rate (approximately £21,805 for the 2026/2027 academic year).
Funding duration: 4 years.
Application Deadline
31 March 2026