Andrew Firth
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AstraZeneca funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship in Improved 2A peptides for co-translational separation of a polyprotein University of Cambridge in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Cell Biology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Cambridge
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About this position
This is a collaborative PhD studentship hosted by the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge and the AstraZeneca Discovery Centre at Cambridge. The project brings together academic and industry research environments, with the student working across both sites under joint supervision.
The research focuses on improved 2A peptide sequences and their use in co-translational separation of polyproteins. These short peptide motifs drive “ribosome skipping” or “StopGo”, allowing the expression of multiple protein components from a single promoter. The project aims to investigate newly identified 2A sequence classes with improved properties and to optimise them for biotechnology.
The student will work on molecular biology approaches to study peptide-bond skipping sequences and their behaviour during translation. The Cambridge group contributes expertise in ribosome profiling, ribosome structure and function, cell biology, cryo-electron microscopy, and bioinformatics. The AstraZeneca team contributes expertise in cell therapy, CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, and viral vectors, and the project includes opportunities to explore how optimised sequences can be implemented in biotechnological applications.
The project is designed to combine mechanistic understanding with translational application, and there may also be scope to develop bioinformatic skills and gain experience in structural biology.
Funding details
Available
How to apply
Apply through the University of Cambridge postgraduate application portal using the Apply button. Review the full position details before submitting your application.
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Professors
Professor at University of Cambridge
United Kingdom
Research Interests
Cell Biology
Structural Biology
Protein Engineering
Cryo-electron Microscopy
Bioinformatic
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Prepare your application
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