Fully Funded PhD in AI-Enhanced Graphical Models for RNA Translation at University of Leeds

A fully funded PhD position is available at the University of Leeds through the BBSRC Yorkshire Bioscience Doctoral Training Partnership (YBDTP). The project focuses on decoding how cells decide which mRNAs to translate, leveraging Direct-FRAC-Seq, long-read RNA sequencing, and advanced AI-enhanced graphical models (GmGM). The research sits at the intersection of statistics, AI, computational biology, bioinformatics, and RNA biology, offering a unique cross-disciplinary training environment. The supervisory team includes Dr Luisa Cutillo, Dr Julie Aspden, Prof David Westhead (all University of Leeds), and Prof Claudio Angione (Teesside University), providing expertise across mathematics, machine learning, bioinformatics, and experimental RNA biology. The studentship is fully funded for four years, covering tuition and a UKRI tax-free stipend, and is open to UK, EU, and international applicants (note: international students must cover their own visa, NHS surcharge, and travel costs). Applicants should have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, computer science, bioinformatics, or a related field, and an interest in computational or RNA biology. The application deadline is 5pm (UK), 7 January 2026. To apply, submit the Expression of Interest form online. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]; for project-specific queries, contact Dr Luisa Cutillo at [email protected].