Publisher
source

University of Cambridge

Top university

Funded PhD in Protein Engineering and Synthetic Biology for Cell Biology and Neuroscience University of Cambridge in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Cell Biology

Funding

Funded PhD project covering tuition fees and salary for both home and international students.

Deadline

Nov 30, 2026

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Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Cambridge

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Keywords

Cell Biology
Biochemistry
Molecular Biology
Biotechnology
Biology
Optogenetics
Synthetic Biology
Neuropsychology
Protein Engineering
Genome Engineering

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About this position

Funded PhD project at the University of Cambridge, Department of Chemistry, in the Mateo Sanchez Lab. The project sits at the interface of chemistry, cell biology, neuroscience, protein engineering, synthetic biology, and molecular biotechnology.

The research will focus on developing new molecular tools using directed evolution, protein design, and novel selection/screening strategies to create new protein chimeras. Depending on the candidate’s interests and project progress, the work may include genetically encoded sensors, actuators, reporters, and other engineered molecular systems for studying and manipulating biological processes in living cells.

Training and techniques may include molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, biochemical and biophysical characterisation, high-throughput screening and selection, fluorescence-based assays, synthetic biological system design, quantitative data analysis, and scientific communication.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have an excellent academic record and a strong background in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline. Prior experience in protein engineering, synthetic biology, or molecular biology is highly advantageous. An MPhil, MSc, or equivalent research experience is strongly recommended.

Funding: the project is funded and covers tuition fees and salary for both home and international students.

Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Application: register interest via the FindAPhD listing; the university will respond directly. Deadline shown on the post: 30 November 2026.

Funding details

Funded PhD project covering tuition fees and salary for both home and international students.

What's required

Applicants should have an excellent academic record and a strong background in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline. Previous research experience in protein engineering, synthetic biology, molecular biology, or a related area is highly advantageous. An MPhil, MSc, or equivalent research experience in a relevant field is strongly recommended. Strong intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, ownership of the project, and excellent written and oral communication skills are expected.

How to apply

Register your interest through the FindAPhD page and submit the enquiry form. The university will respond directly to applicants.

More information can be found here

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