"Manipulation of host translation by neurotropic enteric viruses PhD Studentship"

The Department of Pathology has an excellent reputation in pure biological and biomedical research and is offering a fully funded PhD studentship from October 2026 to work with Dr Valeria Lulla in this large and vibrant Department.

Funding of this studentship will cover the student's stipend at the current Research Council rate and Home University Fees. The studentship will be funded for 4 years from October 2026.

Further information about the course can be found here: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/blpapdpth

More about the project:

Project Title: Manipulation of host translation by neurotropic enteric viruses

Many common enteric viruses can also infect cells of the central nervous system, causing encephalitis, meningitis, and other complications. Picornaviruses and astroviruses stand out for their ability to infect cells of both gut and neuronal origins. This project seeks to understand the molecular basis of how enteric viruses can manipulate host translation in terminally differentiated neurons and gut epithelia. We are using cutting-edge technologies, such as single-cell omics, organoid infection models, and ribosome profiling to address fundamental questions of host-pathogen interaction in the tissue-specific environment.

Please refer to the lab web page for recent updates: https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/research/virology-division/lulla-group

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

How to Apply:

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject. The studentship is open to those eligible for the Home rate of University fees. Additionally, the Department requires that by the time of interview all potential students must have fulfilled the language requirements for admission: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/blpapdpth/requirements

All applications should be made online via the University's Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22): https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/blpapdpth/apply

A completed application must be submitted by the closing date below. An application is only complete when all supporting documents, including the 2 academic references, are submitted.

It is the applicants responsibility to ensure their referees submit their references before the closing date.

The studentships are available to students who qualify for UK HOME FEES ONLY.

Please check for eligibility details using this website: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees/what-my-fee-status

Please also explain your motivation why you wish to pursue a PhD in this area, outline your research interests and background, and describe the qualities and experience you will bring to the role.

Applications from ineligible candidates will not be considered.

Please quote reference PK47587 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.