About the Project

The Tuplin group explores how RNA viruses regulate replication and translation of their genomes through dynamic interactions between structured viral RNA, host and viral proteins and host-cell non-coding RNAs (including siRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs).

Our research focuses on medically important mosquito-borne arboviruses such as chikungunya virus and dengue virus, with the long-term aim of identifying novel therapeutic targets by understanding virus–host interactions at the molecular level.

The Project:

This PhD will investigate how viruses exploit host-cell pathways to control different stages of their replication cycle. As such, you will apply a multi-disciplinary approach (integrating molecular virology, cell biology and structural biology approaches) to identify and investigate fundamental virus-host cell interactions and mechanisms.

This description represents one example of the type of PhD project available in the group. The precise project will be tailored in consultation with the successful candidate, ensuring strong alignment with your interests, skills and career aspirations.

Training & Support:

You will receive world-class training in advanced experimental approaches, with opportunities to learn and apply:

• Molecular virology and cell biology
• Functional genomics and quantitative proteomics
• RNA structure analysis (e.g., in-cell SHAPE-MaP)
• Advanced imaging approaches
• Cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM)
• Structure-based rational drug design

Alongside these technical skills, you will also develop transferable expertise in data analysis, communication, project management and scientific writing.

We place a strong emphasis on mentorship, supportive supervision and career development.

You will be encouraged to:

• Publish in high-impact journals.
• Present your findings at international conferences.
• Build a strong research portfolio for a future career in academia, industry, or translational medicine.

Further Information:

Details about Dr Tuplin’s research can be found at:

School of Molecular and Cellular Biology – Dr Andrew Tuplin

Eligibility

You should hold a first-degree, equivalent to at least a UK upper-second class honours degree, or a MSc degree in a relevant subject.

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence that their English language is sufficient to meet the specific demands of their study. The Faculty of Biological Sciences minimum requirements in IELTS and TOEFL tests are:

• British Council IELTS - score of 6.0 overall, with no element less than 5.5
• Internet based TOEFL - overall score of 80 with not less than 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 19 in writing.

How to apply:

To apply for this project applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application.

• a full academic CV
• degree certificate and transcripts of marks
• Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable).
• Evidence of funding

To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;

• Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study
• Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert

Funding Notes

This project is open to applicants who have the funding to support their own studies or who have a sponsor who will cover these costs.