This MSc project will investigate a novel strategy to increase the production of CFTR protein in cells carrying rare CF-causing mutations. The approach is based on Target Site Blockers (TSBs), a type of nucleic acid therapy that interferes with microRNAs, natural regulators of gene expression. Previous studies from the group showed that TSBs can increase CFTR expression and function in other forms of cystic fibrosis, but their potential in rare CF mutations remains largely unexplored.

The student will use a range of advanced human cellular models, including gene-edited airway epithelial cells and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived airway organoids, to investigate whether TSBs can enhance the effects of existing and experimental CF therapies.

Main Aim

The main aim of the MSc project is to determine whether a novel microRNA-targeting approach can increase CFTR protein expression and improve CFTR function in laboratory models of cystic fibrosis carrying rare disease-causing mutations.

Key Objectives

• Characterise the expression of CFTR-regulating microRNAs in cellular models of rare CF mutations.
• Test combinations of TSBs with approved and experimental CF therapies to identify the most promising treatment strategy.
• Evaluate the effects of these treatments on CFTR protein expression and function in advanced airway cell and organoid models.

This MSc project offers the opportunity to work at the interface of molecular biology, RNA therapeutics and respiratory medicine. The student will gain hands-on experience in a broad range of contemporary research techniques, including cell culture, organoid models, gene expression analysis, microscopy, protein analysis and functional assays. They will learn how potential therapies are evaluated in preclinical models and how laboratory discoveries can inform future treatment strategies. The MSc project is particularly suited to students interested in translational biomedical research, as it combines fundamental questions about gene regulation with practical approaches to addressing an important challenge in cystic fibrosis research.

Entry Requirements:

Mandatory:

Lower Second Class (2.2) honours degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cellular Biology, Physiology, Biotechnology or similar.

English language requirement (for those applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS 6.5-7.0 or equivalent (see complete list of English tests accepted here: https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements)

Desirable:

• Strong background in molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated interest in experimental laboratory research and willingness to learn new techniques
• Previous experience in mammalian cell culture, gene expression analysis, western blot or microscopy is desirable
• Good interpersonal skills and a strong collaborative spirit
• Excellent organisational and communication skills

Industry funding: (Vertex Pharmaceuticals)

Student Stipend: 25 k per year

Supervisor 1: Chiara De Santi

Supervisor 2: Petra Bencurova

Tenure: 2 years full-time MSc Research

Application Deadline: 16th September 2026

Shortlisting: 18th September 2026

Interviews: 28th September - 2nd October 2026 (Virtual interviews available)

Planned Start Date: 1st January 2027

Application Process:

To apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full: Project with Dr Chiara De Santi & Dr Petra Bencurova – 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:

• a completed application form
• English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements

Deadline: All applications must be made online by 16/09/2026

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.

This MSc project will investigate a novel strategy to increase the production of CFTR protein in cells carrying rare CF-causing mutations. The approach is based on Target Site Blockers (TSBs), a type of nucleic acid therapy that interferes with microRNAs, natural regulators of gene expression. Previous studies from the group showed that TSBs can increase CFTR expression and function in other forms of cystic fibrosis, but their potential in rare CF mutations remains largely unexplored.

The student will use a range of advanced human cellular models, including gene-edited airway epithelial cells and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived airway organoids, to investigate whether TSBs can enhance the effects of existing and experimental CF therapies.

Main Aim

The main aim of the MSc project is to determine whether a novel microRNA-targeting approach can increase CFTR protein expression and improve CFTR function in laboratory models of cystic fibrosis carrying rare disease-causing mutations.

Key Objectives

• Characterise the expression of CFTR-regulating microRNAs in cellular models of rare CF mutations.
• Test combinations of TSBs with approved and experimental CF therapies to identify the most promising treatment strategy.
• Evaluate the effects of these treatments on CFTR protein expression and function in advanced airway cell and organoid models.

This MSc project offers the opportunity to work at the interface of molecular biology, RNA therapeutics and respiratory medicine. The student will gain hands-on experience in a broad range of contemporary research techniques, including cell culture, organoid models, gene expression analysis, microscopy, protein analysis and functional assays. They will learn how potential therapies are evaluated in preclinical models and how laboratory discoveries can inform future treatment strategies. The MSc project is particularly suited to students interested in translational biomedical research, as it combines fundamental questions about gene regulation with practical approaches to addressing an important challenge in cystic fibrosis research.

Entry Requirements:

Mandatory:

Lower Second Class (2.2) honours degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cellular Biology, Physiology, Biotechnology or similar.

English language requirement (for those applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS 6.5-7.0 or equivalent (see complete list of English tests accepted here: https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements)

Desirable:

• Strong background in molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated interest in experimental laboratory research and willingness to learn new techniques
• Previous experience in mammalian cell culture, gene expression analysis, western blot or microscopy is desirable
• Good interpersonal skills and a strong collaborative spirit
• Excellent organisational and communication skills

Industry funding: (Vertex Pharmaceuticals)

Student Stipend: 25 k per year

Supervisor 1: Chiara De Santi

Supervisor 2: Petra Bencurova

Tenure: 2 years full-time MSc Research

Application Deadline: 16th September 2026

Shortlisting: 18th September 2026

Interviews: 28th September - 2nd October 2026 (Virtual interviews available)

Planned Start Date: 1st January 2027

Application Process:

To apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full: Project with Dr Chiara De Santi & Dr Petra Bencurova – 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:

• a completed application form
• English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements

Deadline: All applications must be made online by 16/09/2026

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.