AstraZeneca-Funded Non-Clinical PhD Studentship

Targeting Cardiometabolic Dysfunction in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF): Mechanisms of Exercise-Induced Protection

Overview

Applications are invited for a fully funded 4-year non-clinical PhD studentship in cardiometabolic research, commencing October 2026 in the Department of Medicine (VPD Heart & Lung Research Institute), University of Cambridge.

The project will be based in Dr Ana Vujic's laboratory, co-supervised by Professor Antonio Vidal-Puig, and carried out in close collaboration with AstraZeneca supervisors Dr Karin Jennbacken (Executive Director, CVRM Bioscience, Sweden) and Dr Andreas Dannhorn (Associate Director, Integrated Bioanalysis, Cambridge, UK).

Project

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a common, under-recognised condition strongly linked to obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension. Exercise is one of the few interventions consistently shown to improve outcomes, yet its protective mechanisms remain poorly understood.

This project will combine molecular, cellular, and physiological approaches to explore how exercise reprograms metabolic and inflammatory pathways that connect cardiac function to systemic health. Insights gained will inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies for HFpEF and broader cardiometabolic disease.

Training & Development

The successful candidate will receive broad training in:

• Advanced molecular and protein analysis
• Mass spectrometry-based imaging
• Multi-omics technologies
• Preclinical cardiometabolic animal models

They will also gain professional development in data stewardship, research integrity, and ethical experimental design. Regular seminars, workshops, and mentoring across Cambridge and AstraZeneca will provide exposure to drug discovery pipelines and translational science.

Why apply?

• Unique academic industry collaboration with AstraZeneca
• Access to cutting-edge facilities and expertise in both basic science and therapeutic innovation
• Integration into the vibrant Cambridge cardiovascular and metabolism research community
• Competitive stipend (£21,500/year), Home tuition fees, £33,000 consumables, and £5,000 training/travel support

Eligibility

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) a 2:1 honours degree or Master's in a relevant discipline. Laboratory experience is required; skills in data analysis or small animal models are desirable. Open to UK (Home) students or international applicants eligible for Home fees. Self-funding is not permitted.

How to apply

Apply via the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal for the PhD in Medicine. https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/cvmdpdmed

Applications must include:

• CV
• Academic transcripts
• Statement of purpose (research interests, motivation, and suitability)
• Two academic references (submitted by deadline)

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in October–November 2025 (in person or online).

For informal enquiries, contact:
Dr Ana Vujic (av335@cam.ac.uk)
Prof Antonio Vidal-Puig (ajv22@medschl.cam.ac.uk)

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The University values teamwork, diversity, and a supportive research culture, enabling students to thrive and achieve internationally recognised research excellence.

Please quote reference RC47210 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.