University of Birmingham
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PhD Studentship: How Hematopoietic Transcription Factors and Epigenetic Coregulators Shape Gene Regulatory Networks in Immune Cell Development University of Birmingham in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 23, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Birmingham
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About this position
PhD studentship at the University of Birmingham in the Department of Cancer and Genomics Sciences, joining the group of Dr Tianyi Zhang and Dr Rui Monteiro.
This 4-year, competition-funded project is offered through the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership and is open to UK, EU, and international applicants. The research focuses on how hematopoietic transcription factors and epigenetic coregulators cooperate to shape gene regulatory networks during immune cell development. The central biological system is Ikaros, an important hematopoietic transcription factor involved in B cell and T cell development and implicated as a tumour suppressor in acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
The project will investigate molecular interfaces between Ikaros and key chromatin-associated partners, including the NuRD complex, HDAC complexes, SWI/SNF remodellers, and HAT coactivators. It will also examine how these interactions influence chromatin state, genomic targeting, and transcriptional control with spatial-temporal precision during differentiation. A further objective is to test the effects of different Ikaros mutants on immune cell development using an in vivo zebrafish model.
Training will cover biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics, genomics, and cellular, cancer, and zebrafish model systems. The student will be embedded in a broader research programme supported by Wellcome Trust funding.
Eligibility highlights include a first-class or upper second-class honours degree, a Master’s degree and/or relevant research experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, or bioinformatics. Applicants should also demonstrate a strong research track record for their career stage, analytical ability, communication skills, and enthusiasm for collaborative research.
Funding includes UK tuition fees and a stipend at the standard UKRI rate, with the fee difference for international students covered by university funding. The deadline is 23 November 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should have a first-class or upper second-class honours undergraduate degree, a Master’s degree and/or relevant research experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, or bioinformatics. A proven research track record appropriate to career stage, strong analytical ability, communication skills, and enthusiasm for collaborative research are essential.
How to apply
Review the project and submit an application through the University of Birmingham application link. Informal enquiries with CV should be sent to Dr Tianyi Zhang at [email protected]. Consult the Midlands Integrative Biosciences Training Partnership guidance page for application details.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.