Benedikt Berninger

A fully funded PhD position is available in the field of astrocyte-to-neuron reprogramming as part of the Engineering Biology for Biomedicine (EB4BM) doctoral training programme at King's College London. This innovative programme, supported by UKRI:BBSRC, brings together King's College London, the University of Leeds, and the National Physical Laboratory, along with 18 industry partners, to train the next generation of engineering biologists. The research focus includes engineering biology, biological design, and the development of new therapeutics, with specific emphasis on reprogramming astrocytes into neurons. The programme offers bespoke interdisciplinary training in protein design, biomaterials engineering, AI-driven biological design, and bioprocessing for therapeutic manufacturing. Students will gain deep expertise in metrology and standards for engineering biology, with access to world-class facilities such as NPL’s Metrology Bio-foundry, cryo-EM suites, gene therapy innovation hubs, and advanced structural biology capabilities. All studentships are fully funded, providing a stipend between £21,000 and £33,000 and covering tuition fees for both home and international students. The programme includes direct industry experience through CASE studentships and placements with leading biotech and pharmaceutical companies, preparing graduates for careers in biotech R&D, pharmaceutical development, academic research, regulatory affairs, and entrepreneurship. Applicants should have a strong academic background in biological sciences, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, or related fields. Experience or interest in engineering biology, protein design, biomaterials, or AI-driven biological design is desirable. Applications open on 4 February 2026 for the October 2026 cohort. For more information and to apply, visit eb4bm.org .