AstraZeneca-Funded Non-Clinical PhD Studentship: Defining and targeting immune-regulatory metabolic niches during benign-to-malignant transformation of pancreatic cancer
PhD studentship: AstraZeneca-Funded Non-Clinical PhD Studentship "Defining and targeting immune-regulatory metabolic niches during benign-to-malignant transformation of pancreatic cancer"
Supervisors: Dr Tim Halim and Dr Gregory Hamm (AZ Partner)
Department/location: Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute
Deadline for application: 17th October 2025
Course start date: 1st October 2026
Overview
Applications are invited for a 4-year PhD studentship based in the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute and the new AstraZeneca Discovery Centre at Cambridge. The student will work on the collaborative project entitled: "Defining and targeting immune-regulatory metabolic niches during benign-to-malignant transformation of pancreatic cancer" jointly supervised by Dr Tim Halim (primary academic supervisor) at the CRUK Cambridge Institute, Dr Albert Koulman at the Institute of Metabolic Science, and Dr Gregory Hamm at AstraZeneca. The PhD training will span the three sites, providing exposure to cutting‑edge immunology, metabolomics, and computational biology.
Project Details
- Investigate the trafficking and positioning of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and ‘stem‑like’ CD8 T cells within the pancreatic tumour microenvironment.
- Utilise spatial metabolomics, imaging mass cytometry, and single‑cell RNA‑seq to map immune‑metabolic niches that influence immune suppression and checkpoint‑inhibitor efficacy.
- Test the effect of AstraZeneca clinical compounds on the immune‑metabolic landscape in PanIN‑to‑PDAC mouse models.
- Collaborate with Dr Koulman for training in metabolomic and lipidomic analysis.
Preferred Skills/Knowledge
- Excellent laboratory skills and a strong background in immunology, molecular biology, computational biology, and image analysis.
- Effective communication, organisational, time‑management, and creative problem‑solving abilities.
- Highly motivated to drive an independent research project.
Student Support and Training
As a graduate student at Cambridge, you will have access to wide‑range training opportunities and benefit from close supervision provided by a primary and secondary PhD supervisor and a personal mentor. Students are encouraged to attend the institute’s wide variety of lectures, training courses, internal and external seminars, and the annual AstraZeneca students symposium.
Funding
This AstraZeneca‑Funded Non‑Clinical PhD Studentship covers an index‑linked student stipend for 4 years, tuition fees (at Home rate only), and an allocation towards project consumables and training. The successful student will become part of a cohort of Cambridge‑AstraZeneca students who will spend time at both institutions over the course of the PhD and come together as a group for training and social events.
Eligibility
- Recent graduates or final‑year undergraduates holding or expecting a First/Upper Second Class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.
- Applicants with relevant research experience gained through Master’s study or lab work are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Positions are open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (Home fees) or are able to supplement the funds to cover extra costs associated through scholarships or funding schemes. Students will not be allowed to supplement fees via self‑funding.
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. The closing date for applications is 17th October 2025 with interviews expected to take place in the week beginning 5th January 2026. Please quote reference SW47199 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Additional Information
- 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) and 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: Academic transcripts, evidence of competence in English (if appropriate), details of two academic referees, CV/resume.
