Metabolic and Immune Regulation of the Gonadal Niche: Decoding Germline-Soma Crosstalk in Fertility

Infertility is a global health concern, affecting one in six people worldwide. While much research has focused on germline-intrinsic factors, this project recognizes the critical role of the gonadal somatic environment in sexual differentiation and gametogenesis. The gonadal niche, under strict hormonal regulation, is tightly linked to the organism's overall physiology and metabolic state. Understanding how extrinsic factors such as nutrition, immune signalling, and systemic ageing impact the germline is a significant challenge in reproductive medicine. Traditional models often overlook the 'germline-soma crosstalk,' leaving gaps in our ability to treat idiopathic infertility and mitigate lifestyle effects on reproductive health. This PhD project aims to decode the metabolic and immune regulation of the gonadal niche, investigating how inter-tissue communication influences reproductive fitness. The research will combine genetic approaches, nutritional interventions, spatial transcriptomics, in vivo mouse models, and in vitro 3D germline-soma organoid models. The student will employ a transdisciplinary approach, integrating spatial transcriptomics, advanced imaging, and functional assays to address two key pillars: Metabolic Signalling & Dietary Impact: Testing the effects of dietary interventions, such as high-fat diets and fasting, on embryonic (in utero) germline development and adult germline function. Immune-germline interactions: Investigating the role of immune cells in the gonadal niche and how their dysfunction contributes to 'inflammageing' and age-related fertility decline. The student will join the LMS Team Science initiative, 'Reproductive health and fertility: aging, sex, and the environment,' a highly collaborative environment with three postdoctoral researchers and two additional PhD students. The project bridges expertise in epigenetic reprogramming and germline development (Prof P Hajkova), immunometabolism (Dr S Gallage), and computational genomics (Dr J Vaquerizas). You will receive world-class training in imaging, transcriptomics, and 3D organoid assays, preparing you for a career at the forefront of reproductive biology. The long-term vision is to generate lifestyle guidelines and therapeutic strategies to promote reproductive health. The studentship is fully funded for four years, including tuition fees and a generous stipend (£26,500 per annum). Overseas students are eligible to apply. Applicants should have a strong background and keen interest in reproductive biology, epigenetics, or immunology, and a strong interest in functional studies of the gonadal niche. Experience in genetics, cell biology, developmental biology, genomics, or related fields is desirable. The application deadline is March 10, 2026. To apply, visit the LMS website and complete the application form for the LMS 4-year PhD studentships. For further details, see the project page on FindAPhD.