University of Cambridge
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PhD Studentship: Unmasking mechanisms of resistance to KRAS inhibition across pancreatic cancer genetic profiles University of Cambridge in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Molecular Biology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Oct 16, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Cambridge
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About this position
PhD studentship at the University of Cambridge on unmasking mechanisms of resistance to KRAS inhibition across pancreatic cancer genetic profiles.
This project is hosted in Dr Giulia Biffi’s research group and focuses on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly aggressive cancer with major unmet clinical need. The research addresses an important clinical question: why do PDAC tumours rapidly develop resistance to KRAS inhibitors, even as these drugs represent a new therapeutic opportunity for patients?
The studentship will investigate both malignant cell-intrinsic and malignant cell-extrinsic resistance mechanisms across genetically distinct PDAC models. A particular emphasis is placed on fibroblast-mediated tumour–stromal crosstalk, reflecting the lab’s broader work on how malignant-cell genetics shape the surrounding tumour microenvironment and therapeutic vulnerabilities.
The project uses a highly integrative experimental approach, combining co-transplantation of organoids in mouse models, in vivo CRISPR, single-cell RNA sequencing, flow cytometry, multiplex immunofluorescence, spatial transcriptomics, and standard molecular biology methods. Depending on the student’s skills and interests, there may also be a computational component. The project is well suited to students interested in tumour heterogeneity, cancer genetics, stromal biology, and translational oncology.
The research group website is available at https://biffilab.wordpress.com, where further information and recent publications can be found.
Eligibility: applications are welcomed from both UK and overseas students. Because the work relies heavily on mouse models, a willingness to work with mice throughout the PhD is essential. Prior laboratory or industry research experience is required, and experience with cell culture, organoids, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, PCR, or mouse models would be advantageous.
Funding information is not specified in the advert. The application deadline is 16 October 2026. Applicants should apply through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal and select an October 2027 start date.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should be motivated, enthusiastic about collaborative research, and committed to the experimental strategies required for the project. Prior experience in a laboratory or industry research environment is required. Willingness to work with mouse models throughout the PhD is essential. Experience with tissue culture, including cell lines and/or organoids, common laboratory techniques such as immunohistochemistry, western blotting and/or PCR, and mouse work would be viewed favourably. Prior knowledge of pancreatic cancer or cancer biology would be advantageous. Applications are welcome from both UK and overseas students.
How to apply
Apply via the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal. Select October 2027 as the intended start date. Submit your application before the deadline.
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