Dr Raza Ali wishes to recruit a student to work on the project entitled: "Systems pathology of the breast tumour microenvironment in obesity".
This is a unique opportunity for PhD study in the world-leading Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI), to start a research career in an environment committed to training outstanding cancer research scientists of the future.
The Institute's particular strengths are in genomics, computational biology and imaging; and significant research effort is currently devoted to cancers arising in the breast, pancreas, brain, and colon. Our Core Facilities provide researchers with access to state-of-the-art equipment, in-house expertise and training. Scientists at CRUK CI aim to understand the fundamental biology of cancer and translate these findings into the clinic to benefit patients.
There are around 100 postgraduate students at the Cambridge Institute, who play a vital and pivotal role in its continuing success. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive working environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and scientific excellence.
Project details
References/further reading
Spatial predictors of immunotherapy response in triple-negative breast cancer. Wang XQ et al. Nature. 2023.
Breast tumor microenvironment structures are associated with genomic features and clinical outcome. Danenberg E et al. Nat Genet. 2022 May;54(5):660-669. doi: 10.1038/s41588-022-01041-y
Imaging mass cytometry and multiplatform genomics define the phenogenomic landscape of breast cancer. Ali HR et al. Nat Cancer. 2020 Feb;1(2):163-175. doi: 10.1038/s43018-020-0026-6
Preferred skills/knowledge
1. Interest in breast cancer research.
2. BSc degree in Biology, Biomedicine or a relevant discipline (Biochemistry, Neuroscience)
3. MSc degree (or equivalent) in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Data Science or related discipline.
4. Strong quantitative analysis skills and experience developing algorithms and/or conducting statistical analyses with biological datasets.
5. Background and work knowledge in statistics, algorithms, optimization of novel or existing tools into an effective pipeline.
6. Highly collaborative, good communicator, able to find solutions to problems, to work effectively as part of a team.
7. Creative thinker, able to contribute intellectually to other projects developed in the Laboratory.
8. Excellent oral and written English.
Funding
This four-year studentship is funded by Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute and includes full funding for University fees and, in addition, an index-linked stipend starting at £22,113.
Eligibility
We welcome applications from both UK and overseas students.
Applications are invited from recent graduates or final-year undergraduates who hold or expect to gain a First/Upper Second Class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject from any recognised university worldwide.
Deadline
The closing date for applications is 17 August 2025 with interviews expected to take place in the week beginning 29 September 2025.
You should select to commence study in April 2026.
Additional information
To complete your online application, you will need to answer/provide the following:
Choice of project and supervisor
Course-specific questions
9. You will be asked to give details of your Research Experience (up to 2,500 characters)
10. Your Statement of Interest (up to 2,500 characters) should explain why you wish to be considered for the studentship and what qualities and experience you will bring to the role.
Supporting documents
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.