JAMT: Uncovering the regulation of an orphan G protein-coupled receptor: Role in Prostate Cancer Progression

About the Project

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related death in men, and the number of cases is expected to double by 2040.

While current treatments that lower male hormones can slow the disease, many aggressive cancers eventually become resistant, making them much harder to treat. There is an urgent need to identify new drug targets and better ways to detect which cancers are likely to become aggressive. Our research focuses on a group of proteins called G protein-coupled receptors, which sit on the surface of cells and respond to signals in the body: G protein-coupled receptors are already the target of over 30% of existing medicines. We have identified a specific orphan G protein-coupled receptor that carries genetic changes linked to prostate cancer risk and mortality (UK biobank).

We aim to understand how this G protein-coupled receptor behaves in prostate cancer, how it is controlled and whether it contributes to aggressive/ therapy-resistant resistance disease. We believe this G protein-coupled receptor could serve as both a new marker to identify aggressive prostate cancer and a promising target for future therapies.

This PhD project brings together areas of expertise in G protein-coupled receptors, molecular pharmacology, epigenetics and prostate cancer from the University of Aberdeen, which will offer an optimal training environment and provide the student with a set of highly desirable skills.

It is expected that completion of the aims will advance our understanding of the cellular function of G protein-coupled receptors.

Informal enquiries are encouraged,, please contact Dr Fiona Murray (fmurray@abdn.ac.uk)t for further information.

Candidate Background:

The applicant should have a strong interest in pharmacology and drug discovery and an undergraduate qualification in a relevant discipline.

Applicants should hold a minimum of a 2:1 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent). Those with a 2:2 UK Honours degree (or international equivalent) may be considered, provided they have (or are expected to achieve) a Distinction or Commendation at master’s level.

We actively encourage applications from diverse career paths and backgrounds and across all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status, amongst other protected characteristics.

Application Procedure

Important note: This project is open only to applicants eligible for the Home/UK fee rate. This includes EU students who hold settled or pre-settled status and meet the relevant residency criteria.

To apply, please submit the following documents via email to smmsn-pgrenquiries@abdn.ac.uk

• A cover letter addressed to the supervisor of the project you're applying for.
• An up-to-date CV detailing your academic qualifications, employment history, and any other relevant experience. Please ensure your current permanent address is clearly stated, as this will be used to determine your fee status.
• Clear copies of your degree certificates and transcripts (if available).
• Evidence of settled or pre-settled status (if applicable).

Please send your application with documents attached as a single email with the subject line: "JAMT Fiona Murray - [Your Name]"

The deadline for applications is 23:59 GMT on 14th June 2026. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

For any enquiries regarding your application or the application process, please contact smmsn-pgrenquiries@abdn.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This competitively funded research project is one of six opportunities currently advertised by the University of Aberdeen, seeking exceptional candidates. The James Alexander Mearns Trust (JAMT) will fund the project that attracts the most promising applicant.

The fully funded position includes UK/Home tuition fees, research costs, and a tax-free doctoral stipend of £21,805 for the 2026/2027 academic year (increases annually). The project is expected to start in October 2026.