About the Project
Fully-funded PhD studentship: Understanding the identity and function of tumour-initiating states
Reference: SW51026
Supervisor: Prof Masashi Narita
Department/location: Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute
Deadline for application: 16th October 2026
Course start date: 1st October 2027
Overview
Prof Masashi Narita wishes to recruit a student to work on the project entitled: “Understanding the identity and function of tumour-initiating states”.
For further information about the research group, including their most recent publications, please visit their website at https://www.naritalab.com/.
This is a unique opportunity for PhD study in the world-leading Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI), to start a research career in an environment committed to training outstanding cancer research scientists of the future.
The Institute’s particular strengths are in genomics, computational biology and imaging; and significant research effort is currently devoted to cancers arising in the breast, pancreas, brain, and colon. AI has become integrated into all areas of research, as well as standalone, to generate new pathways for innovation and collaboration. Our Core Facilities provide researchers with access to state-of-the-art equipment, in-house expertise and training. Scientists at CRUK CI aim to understand the fundamental biology of cancer and translate these findings into the clinic to benefit patients.
There are around 100 postgraduate students at the Cambridge Institute, who play a vital and pivotal role in its continuing success. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive working environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and scientific excellence.
If you are interested in finding out more about our groundbreaking scientific research, please visit our website at https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/.
Project details
Our laboratory investigates the biology of preneoplastic cell states, with particular interest in how changes in cell functional identity and plasticity are controlled by the epigenome. We are interested in how oncogenic and metabolic signalling reshapes chromatin organisation and gene regulation, how these changes influence cellular fitness and tissue microenvironment, and which states ultimately suppress or promote tumour development.
The PhD project will investigate the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying transitions between preneoplastic cell states using diverse models, both in vitro and in vivo. The precise direction of the project will be developed according to the student's interests and emerging findings in the laboratory. Depending on the specific questions addressed, approaches may include mammalian cell culture, molecular and cell biology, genetic perturbation, imaging, epigenetic and chromatin profiling, and in vivo models of early tumorigenesis. Genomic and single-cell approaches may also be used, supported by collaboration with computational scientists.
References/further reading
- Zhu H, Chan ASL & Narita M. The rise of RAS: how gradual oncogene activation shapes the OIS spectrum. Genes & Development (2025).
- Chan ASL et al. Oncogenic RAS drives a spectrum of cellular states with distinct tumour-propagating potential. Nature (2024).
- Olan I, Ando-Kuri M, Parry AJ et al. HMGA1 orchestrates chromatin compartmentalization and sequesters genes into 3D networks coordinating senescence heterogeneity. Nature Communications 15, 6891 (2024).
- Cassidy LD et al. Temporal inhibition of autophagy reveals segmental reversal of ageing with increased cancer risk. Nature Communications 11, 307 (2020).
- Olan I, Handa T & Narita M. Beyond SAHF: an integrative view of chromatin compartmentalization during senescence. Trends in Cell Biology (2023).
Preferred skills/knowledge
Previous hands-on laboratory research experience is highly desirable. Experience in one or more of the following would be advantageous but is not essential: mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, genetic manipulation, chromatin or epigenetic assays, and cancer or ageing model systems.
The successful candidate should have a strong interest in mechanistic biology and in using experimental approaches to understand fundamental questions in cancer development.
Computational or bioinformatics expertise is advantageous but not required. Training and collaborative support will be available to analyse genomic datasets generated during the project.
Funding
This four-year studentship is funded by Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute and includes full funding for University fees, with an index-linked stipend starting at £22,894pa for four years in 2027-28.
Eligibility
We welcome applications from both UK and overseas students.
Applications are invited from recent graduates or final-year undergraduates who hold or expect to gain a First/Upper Second Class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject from any recognised university worldwide.
Applicants with relevant research experience, gained through Master’s study or while working in a laboratory, are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to apply
Please apply via the University Applicant Portal. For further information about the course and to access the Applicant Portal, visit: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/cvcrpdmsc
You should select to commence study in October 2027.
Additional information
To complete your online application, you will need to answer/provide the following:
Choice of project and supervisor
Please ensure that you name the project (with reference code) and supervisor, where indicated. You are permitted to apply for up to three projects.
Course-specific questions
- You will be asked to give details of your Research Experience (up to 2,500 characters)
- Your Statement of Interest (up to 2,500 characters) should explain why you wish to be considered for the studentship and what qualities and experience you will bring to the role.
Supporting documents
Applicants will be asked to provide:
- Academic transcripts
- Evidence of competence in English (if appropriate)
- Details of two academic referees
- CV/resume
References
We would appreciate it if you could ask your referees to submit their references as soon as possible upon request, despite the longer University deadline for references. They will receive a request once you have completed the References section of your application.
Deadline
The closing date for applications is 16th October 2026, with interviews expected to take place in the week beginning 4th January 2027.
Funding Notes
This four-year studentship is funded by Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute and includes full funding for University fees, with an index-linked stipend starting at £22,894pa for four years in 2027-28.
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