PhD Studentship in Biosciences: Deciphering the Role of Transcriptional Enhancers in Gene Regulation and Osteoarthritis Newcastle University in United Kingdom

This PhD studentship at Newcastle University's Biosciences Institute offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the role of transcriptional enhancers in gene regulation and osteoarthritis. The project focuses on SOX9, a key transcription factor essential for cartilage development, skeletal growth, and adult joint maintenance. Enhancers—non-coding DNA elements—play a crucial role in fine-tuning SOX9 expression, and recent research has identified 16 previously unknown human SOX9 enhancers, some of which contain genetic variants linked to increased osteoarthritis susceptibility.

As a PhD student, you will dissect the functions of these SOX9 enhancers in controlling cartilage gene expression. The research will employ integrated bioinformatics, CRISPR/Cas9-based genetic and epigenetic editing, transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling, qRT-PCR, western blotting, histology, and functional assays in both human monolayer and 3D cartilage cultures. You will also assess enhancer activity in response to mechanical loading and biochemical stimulation using cartilage cell lines, mesenchymal stem cells, and patient-derived chondrocytes.

The project is supervised by Dr Louise Reynard and Prof David Young, and is based within Newcastle University's Faculty of Medical Sciences. You will benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and specialist training in genomics, bioinformatics, and regenerative medicine. Your research will advance fundamental understanding of cartilage biology, identify new targets for regenerative therapies, and contribute to the development of tissue-specific CRISPR strategies to correct age-related dysregulation in cartilage.

The studentship covers 100% of home tuition fees and provides an annual stipend of £21,805 (2026-27 UKRI rate). International candidates are welcome to apply but must fund the difference between home and international tuition fees. The award is open to applicants with at least a 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in biomedical sciences; an MRes or similar postgraduate qualification is advantageous. English language requirements are IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each sub-skill.

Applications must be submitted via Newcastle University's Application Portal by May 18, 2026. Please select 'Postgraduate Research', 'Full Time', year of entry '2026', and course code '8420F'. Choose 'PhD Biosciences (FT)' and save your selection. Upload a personal statement, covering letter, CV, degree transcripts/certificates, and English language qualification if applicable. Use code 'BI101' in 'Studentship Reference'. No research proposal is required; simply type in the project title from the advert.

For further information, contact Dr Louise Reynard at [email protected].