The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research programme focused on leukemia. The project aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms driving resistance to cell death signaling in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia that drives tumour progression and treatment resistance. The candidate will gain experience in a series of state-of-art techniques including super-resolution imaging, metabolic profiling and apoptotic profiling. The goal is to identify more effective and less toxic therapeutic strategies for children with high-risk leukemia. This project will have a clinical link through close collaboration with haematologist Professor Johnathan Bond.
This 4-year PhD scholarship is a co-funded position, supported by Research Ireland and the Children’s Health Foundation, which will cover PhD stipend (€25K per year), fees (EU fees), consumables, and conference allowance.
Mandatory Specifications
- Upper Second Class (2.1) honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject
- IELTS 6.5-7.0 (other English language tests are accepted - please see English language requirements for Postgraduate study at RCSI Dublin
- Highly motivated with good problem-solving skills and organisation skills.
- Good communication skills.
- Ability to work on one’s own initiative, as well as in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Desirable Specifications
- MSc in a related subject e.g Cancer biology is desirable.
- Previous lab experience in cell biology, molecular biology, cancer research, or related fields is desirable.
Project Supervisors: Dr Triona Ni Chonghaile and Prof Siobhan Glavey
How to apply
To apply, please access the following external link and complete the application form in full:
Project with Prof Triona Ni Chonghaile – Fill out form
- Unfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.
- At this stage only successful candidates will be contacted to submit, CV, transcripts and other relevant documentation.
- For successful candidates, referees will also be contacted at this stage for a reference.
Applications must include:
(i) a completed application form
(ii) English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements.
Deadline: All applications must be made online by 17/08/2026
It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure the application form is completed in full on time. Late and/or incomplete applications will not normally be assessed.
Expected shortlisting date: 20/08/2026
Expected interview date: Week of August 24th
Planned start date: October 2026
