Masashi Narita
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2 weeks ago
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Fully-funded PhD Studentship: Understanding the Identity and Function of Tumour-initiating States University of Cambridge in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Cancer Biology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Oct 16, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Cambridge
Suggested positions
Keywords
About this position
Fully-funded PhD studentship at the University of Cambridge on Understanding the Identity and Function of Tumour-initiating States.
The project is based in Prof Masashi Narita’s laboratory, which studies the biology of preneoplastic cell states and how cell identity and plasticity are controlled by the epigenome. The group is interested in how oncogenic and metabolic signalling reshapes chromatin organisation and gene regulation, and how these processes influence cellular fitness, tissue microenvironment, and the emergence of states that suppress or promote tumour development.
The PhD project will investigate molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying transitions between preneoplastic cell states using diverse in vitro and in vivo models. Depending on the direction developed with the student, the work may include mammalian cell culture, molecular and cell biology, genetic perturbation, imaging, epigenetic and chromatin profiling, early tumorigenesis models, and genomic or single-cell approaches. Collaboration with computational scientists is available for analysis of generated datasets.
The lab notes a strong interest in mechanistic biology and experimental approaches to fundamental questions in cancer development. Previous hands-on laboratory research experience is highly desirable. Helpful but non-essential experience includes mammalian cell culture, microscopy, chromatin or epigenetic assays, genetic manipulation, and cancer or ageing model systems. Computational or bioinformatics experience is advantageous but not required.
Eligibility is open to both UK and overseas applicants. The advert invites applications from recent graduates or final-year undergraduates who hold or expect to gain a First/Upper Second Class degree, or equivalent, in a relevant subject from a recognised university worldwide. Relevant research experience gained during a Master’s degree or in a laboratory is strongly encouraged.
Applications should be submitted through the University Applicant Portal, with a start date of 1 October 2027 selected. The application deadline shown is 16 October 2026. Referees should be asked to submit references promptly once requested.
Further information about the research group and publications is available via the lab website: www.naritalab.com.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should have a First or Upper Second Class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject from a recognised university worldwide, and both UK and overseas students are eligible. Recent graduates or final-year undergraduates are invited to apply. Relevant research experience from Master's study or laboratory work is strongly encouraged. Previous hands-on laboratory research experience is highly desirable, and experience in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, genetic manipulation, chromatin or epigenetic assays, cancer or ageing model systems, and computational or bioinformatics work would be advantageous but is not essential.
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Professors
Prof at University of Cambridge
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Cell Biology
Biochemistry
Aging
Cancer Biology
Apoptosis
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