Research Associate (Honorary Resident Doctor - PhD Student)
Clinical PhD Studentship: mTOR Signalling and Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome
We are seeking an outstanding Clinical PhD student (training grade CT2 to ST8) to join the Marciniak laboratory at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR), University of Cambridge. The studentship is ideally suited to clinicians with interest in specialties relevant to Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, including respiratory medicine, clinical genetics, dermatology, urology, and oncology.
Overview
Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) is an inherited tumour‑predisposition syndrome caused by pathogenic variants in FLCN, leading to dysregulated mTOR signalling and multisystem disease. The PhD project will investigate how loss of FLCN perturbs mTOR‑dependent cellular homeostasis and identify pathways that may be therapeutically tractable. It combines fundamental cell biology with translational relevance. The group includes clinicians and fundamental scientists and values rigorous, collaborative science aimed at meaningful patient benefit.
Responsibilities
* Develop and characterise reporter cell lines and organoid models of FLCN deficiency.
* Perform chemical and genetic screens to identify mechanisms that restore cellular homeostasis following FLCN inactivation.
* Integrate cell biological and genetic approaches to understand disease mechanisms in a rare disease context.
* Collaborate with the LifeArc Rare Respiratory Disease Centre and contribute to translational research projects.
Qualifications
* Medical qualification at the time of commencing the PhD.
* Training grade CT2 to ST8.
* Clinical interest in Birt-Hogg‑Dubé related specialties (respiratory medicine, clinical genetics, dermatology, urology, oncology).
* Strong background in molecular or cellular biology enhances competitiveness.
Benefits
* Start date: 1 September 2026.
* Three‑year PhD studentship.
* Honorary Clinical Contract issued by NHS Trust.
* Mentorship from senior clinicians and scientists.
* Opportunities to publish in high‑impact journals.
Equal Opportunity
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.
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