[Full Home tuition fees plus a stipend of £19,215 per annum for 4 years (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC). International applicants must cover the difference between Home and International tuition fees. No additional funding for NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa, or flights.]

This four-year PhD studentship at the University of Plymouth offers an exciting opportunity to advance translational neuro-oncology research by identifying synthetic lethality targets in meningioma using a high-throughput CRISPR kinome screening platform. Meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumours, yet current therapies for aggressive or unresectable cases remain limited. The project aims to uncover novel kinase targets that sensitize meningioma cells to brigatinib, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for brain tumour treatment.

The research will utilize the Brunello kinome library to introduce CRISPR sgRNAs into primary meningioma cells, followed by exposure to brigatinib. Cells will be sorted using a state-of-the-art magnetic ranking cytometry microfluidic platform, with phospho-ERK levels serving as drug engagement readouts. Resistant and sensitized cell populations will be isolated, and RNA sequencing will identify sgRNA targets. Bioinformatic analyses will highlight top candidates for synthetic lethality, which will be validated through RNAi and pharmacological approaches, emphasizing drug repurposing for rapid clinical translation.

The project is based at the University of Plymouth, leveraging a molecularly annotated biobank of primary meningioma tissues and established in vivo models. The research timeline includes overlapping work packages: CRISPR library screening, microfluidic sorting, single-cell sequencing, and functional validation. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in molecular biology, high-throughput microfluidics, CRISPR gene editing, single-cell transcriptomics, and preclinical validation, working within a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.

Applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or a Masters qualification. Non-native English speakers must meet the minimum English requirements (IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in each component). The studentship covers full Home tuition fees and provides a stipend of £19,215 per annum (2025-26 rate; 2026-27 rate TBC) for four years. International applicants must cover the difference between Home and International tuition fees, and there is no additional funding for NHS Immigration Health Surcharge, visa, or flights. Full-time work is not permitted during the studentship.

To apply, submit your application online, including a CV, personal statement outlining academic interests and research experience, degree certificates/transcripts, and contact information for two academic referees. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview around the week commencing 20 April 2026. For informal inquiries, contact Dr Liyam Laraba at [email protected].