PhD Studentship: RNA-Binding Proteins and Alternative Splicing in Cardiac Regeneration
The Beqqali Lab at the University of Edinburgh is recruiting a highly motivated PhD student for a project within the MRC-BHF Centre in Advanced Cardiac Therapies (REACT). This research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms regulating regeneration in the injured and failing heart, focusing on RNA-binding proteins and alternative splicing programmes that control cardiomyocyte plasticity. RNA-binding proteins are increasingly recognized as key regulators of cardiac development and disease, orchestrating alternative splicing networks that influence structural organization, stress responses, and cellular adaptation in the heart. The successful candidate will investigate how these RNA regulatory pathways contribute to cardiac repair and regenerative potential.
Students will gain expertise in state-of-the-art research methods, including stem-cell based models of human cardiomyocytes, RNA biology and transcriptomic analysis, functional assays of cardiomyocyte behaviour, high-throughput screening approaches, and gene therapy technologies. The project integrates fundamental RNA biology with translational cardiovascular research, aiming to identify new therapeutic strategies for heart failure.
As part of the REACT Centre, the student will collaborate with world leaders in cardiovascular research at the University of Oxford and King’s College London. The position is embedded in the MRC Precision Medicine Doctoral Training Programme, which offers integrated training over four years in quantitative skills (mathematics, statistics, computation, and digital excellence) and their application to diverse data sources, from wet bench ‘omics’ to health records. This interdisciplinary training prepares students for careers at the interface of biology, medicine, and data science.
The supervisory team in Edinburgh consists of Dr Abdelaziz Beqqali and Professor Andy Baker. Applicants should hold or be about to obtain a UK or International 1st Class or 2.1 degree or a Masters in a relevant discipline in biological or biomedical sciences, with a strong interest in cardiovascular disease, RNA biology, gene regulation, and regenerative medicine. Experience in molecular biology, cell biology, genomics, or bioinformatics is advantageous. Candidates are encouraged to submit a CV and cover letter outlining their research interests and motivation for applying, including their interest in RNA biology, alternative splicing, or cardiovascular regeneration. Contact details for two academic referees should also be provided.
This is a fully funded 4-year studentship supported by the MRC, covering tuition fees, a UKRI stipend, and support for conference travel and research training. International students must comply with UK government visa guidelines and cover National Health Service surcharges. The Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research, founded in 2025, offers a collaborative and inclusive environment, supporting around 80 postgraduate clinical and non-clinical students annually. Students benefit from broad training in research skills, an active seminar series, opportunities to present ongoing research, and additional training in public engagement, science communication, and STEM workshops.
Applications should be sent directly to Dr Abdelaziz Beqqali at [email protected]. Early applications are encouraged as interviews may be scheduled before the closing date. Informal enquiries about the project are welcome. The deadline for applications is April 17, 2026.
