About the role
Project Title
Curing rare inherited diseases using innovative gene therapies
Background
Double-strand breaks (DSBs) are critical DNA lesions that can be resolved through non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ), alternative end-joining (alt-EJ), and homology-directed repair (HDR) pathways. Programmable endonucleases, such as CRISPR-Cas9, harness these repair mechanisms for gene knockout or, with a donor template, for precise sequence insertion at a target locus. Whilst targeted genome editing has huge therapeutic potential, unintended repair outcomes such as indels, large deletions, and chromosomal aberrations may result in genotoxicity which compromises the safety and efficacy of these therapies.
Hypothesis/Aims
To apply genotoxicity screening technologies developed by our lab to evaluate genomic integrity after gene editing using next generation tools including base editors, prime editors, and other designer nucleases.
To further optimise and develop novel next-generation sequencing and digital PCR based tools to improve detection sensitivity of unintended aberrations following gene editing.
To utilise these newly developed tools to elucidate mechanisms and kinetics of DNA repair in a gene editing context.
About you
Applicants should have a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree and/or a Master’s degree (preferably with a merit or distinction) in a relevant discipline, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
UCL offers may be conditional, subject to meeting Child Health MPhil/PhD entry requirements, including English Language Requirements, which must be met before an Unconditional offer can be made.
What we offer
This studentship provides a starting stipend of £22, per annum and covers the cost of tuition fees based on the UK (Home) rate (£6,).
Only students eligible for UK/Home fees status can apply.
Funding is not provided for paid parental and medical leave. Unpaid interruptions can be requested and may be supported.
How to apply
Please do not click the 'Apply Now' button next to the advert.
Enquiries regarding the post can be made to
Dr Nathan White ()
To apply, please send a current CV including the contact details of two professional referees as well as a 1-sided A4 cover letter to Dr Nathan White ()
Closing date for applications: 15/10/
Interview: First week of November
Applications that are submitted without following the correct application process will not be considered. The successful applicant will then be required to apply to and register on the Child Health research degree to take up the studentship.
Anticipated start date: 1st February to be confirmed subject to successful graduate application following interview.