Fully-funded PhD studentships

Mechanism and evolution of divergent molecular motors in trypanosome parasites – Dr Aakash G. Mukhopadhyay

 

Start Date: January 2027
Duration: 4 years
Funding: Fully funded (UK Home fee status applicants only)
Supervisor: Dr Aakash Mukhopadhyay
Department: Pathology (BLPA22)

 

Project Overview

 

Applications are invited for a 4 year fully funded PhD studentship starting January 2027 in the laboratory of Dr Aakash Mukhopadhyay.

The project focuses on understanding the biology of eukaryotic flagella (cilia)—specialised cellular structures that enable movement, environmental sensing, and cell communication. Defects in cilia are linked to numerous human diseases, including retinal degeneration, developmental disorders, and obesity. Many microbial pathogens also depend on flagella for survival and transmission.

A particular focus of this project is on trypanosomatid parasites, which include the organisms responsible for diseases such as leishmaniasis and sleeping sickness. These parasites possess a highly specialised flagellum that is essential for movement, environmental sensing, and successful infection of multiple hosts, including humans.

Further information about the course can be found here. 

 

Research Project

 

The PhD will investigate the mechanisms of intraflagellar transport (IFT) motors in trypanosomes and explore how their structural organisation supports flagellum assembly and function.

The project will combine a range of multidisciplinary approaches, including:

  • Cell biology
  • Parasite genetics
  • Biochemistry
  • Structural biology

The successful candidate will contribute to uncovering fundamental principles governing the function and evolution of these molecular motors.

 

Application Process

 

All applications should be made online via the University’s Applicant Portal 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. 

Please note that there is an application fee of £20.

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.

Closing Date is 31st July 2026

 

Important Information

 

  • Application deadline: 31 July 2026
  • Application fee: £20
  • References required: 2 academic references

Please note that an application is only considered complete once all supporting documents, including both academic references, have been received. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure their referees submit their references before the closing date.

 

Eligibility

 

Applicants should:

  • Hold, or expect to obtain, at least a UK upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent.
  • Have an undergraduate or Master's degree in a relevant subject area.
  • Qualify for UK Home Fee status.

Please check for eligibility details here:

 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

 

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