Project title: Mechanism and evolution of divergent molecular motors in trypanosome parasites

Dr Aakash G. Mukhopadhyay

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD studentship starting January 2027 in the laboratory of Dr Aakash Mukhopadhyay.

Eukaryotic flagella (aka cilia) are remarkable cellular organelles that enable cells to move, sense their environment, and communicate with surrounding tissues. In humans, defects in these structures cause a wide range of diseases, including retinal degeneration, developmental disorders and obesity. Many microbial pathogens also rely on flagella for survival, transmission and host adaptation.

Among the most fascinating examples are the trypanosomatid parasites, a group that includes the causative agents of leishmaniasis and sleeping sickness. These parasites possess a specialised flagellum that is essential for motility, environmental sensing and successful progression through multiple hosts including humans.

This project will investigate the mechanism of the trypanosome intraflagellar transport (IFT) motors and determine how their architecture supports flagellum assembly and function. You will apply multi-disciplinary approaches from cell biology, parasite genetics, biochemistry and structural biology to uncover fundamental principles governing the function and evolution of these molecular motors.

The project will be carried out in the newly established Mukhopadhyay Laboratory, which studies the mechanisms of eukaryotic cilia and flagella. The PI has an established track record in IFT, motors and flagellum function.

The project offers an exciting opportunity to address fundamental questions in cell biology while gaining insight into the biology of medically important parasites. The findings are expected to reveal new principles of molecular motor evolution, with broad relevance to both pathogen biology and ciliary/flagellar function across eukaryotes.

Closing Date is 31 July 2026

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

All applications should be made online via the University's Applicant Portal https://apply.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applicant/login?dswid=749 for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22). 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.

University Postgraduate Admissions closing dates are 31 July for January start, although it is advisable to apply earlier than this. Please note that there is an application fee of £20 to apply via the Postgraduate Application Portal.

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure their referees submit their references before the closing date.

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.

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

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject.

Please quote reference PK49372 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.