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PhD Studentship: Investigating the causes and consequences of R-loop dysregulation in cancer

Supervisor: Dr Magdalena Crossley

Department/location: Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute (CRUK CI)

Course start date: 1st October 2025

Overview

Dr Magdalena Crossley wishes to recruit a PhD student to work on the project entitled: 'Investigating the causes and consequences of R-loop dysregulation in cancer'.

For further information about CRUK CI's newest research group, please visit our website at: https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/research-groups/crossley-group/

Project details

RNA-DNA hybrid structures, including R-loops, form on the genome and have physiological roles in regulating gene expression. However, dysregulation of R-loops can threaten genome maintenance and has been linked to cancer, neurodegeneration and autoimmunity. We investigate, at the molecular level, how R-loops and RNA-DNA hybrids become pathological, impacting genome stability and innate immunity.

We recently discovered that dysregulation of R-loop metabolism by cancer-associated mutations leads to the excision of R-loops. Excised RNA-DNA hybrids are exported from the nucleus and build up in the cytoplasm of cells, activating an innate immune response (Crossley et al., Nature 2023). We developed new biochemical, genomics and imaging approaches to study RNA-DNA hybrids across different cellular compartments. PhD projects are expected to gain mechanistic and translational insights into this novel and fascinating population of nucleic acids. Projects will be tailored to the successful individual(s) based on interests and previous experience, incorporating one or more of the following areas:

  • Genome biology and cellular dynamics of RNA-DNA hybrids, eg their biogenesis from oncogene activation, retroelements and mitochondria.
  • RNA-DNA hybrids in innate immunity and cellular responses, eg senescence.
  • Extracellular RNA-DNA hybrid release.
  • Developing genomics and computational approaches for interrogation of RNA-DNA hybrids in cells and patient samples.

Your project will explore the role of RNA-DNA hybrids in human cells, with the aim to translate our mechanistic findings into patient samples and inform new therapeutic entry points.

You can expect to develop innovative skills in both experimental and computational approaches, benefit from close mentoring, and have an opportunity to shape the scientific direction of a new research group.

Further reading

  1. Crossley M. P., et al. Nature (2023). doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07064-1
  2. Crossley M. P., et al. JCB (2021). doi: 10.1083/jcb.202101092
  3. Crossley M. P., et al. NAR (2020). doi: 10.1093/nar/gkaa500
  4. Crossley M. P., et al. Mol. Cell (2019). doi: 10.1016/j.molcel.2019.01.024

Preferred skills/knowledge

We are looking for candidates with excellent laboratory and/or computational skills, a strong background in biochemistry, molecular biology, genomics or computational biology/bioinformatics, as well as a keen interest in RNA/genome biology. Successful candidates are expected to have excellent communication, organisational and time-management skills, an inquisitive mind, and be highly motivated to drive an independent research project.

Funding

This four-year studentship is funded by Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute. It includes full funding for University fees and, in addition, a stipend currently of £21,000 per annum for four years.

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.

Deadline

The closing date for applications is 24th March 2025 with in-person interviews expected to take place in April/May 2025.

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 Michaelmas Term 2025 (October 2025).

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 Dr Madzia Crossley as supervisor, where indicated.

  • Course-specific questions

(a) You will be asked to give details of your Research Experience (up to 2,500 characters)

(b) 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:

(a) Academic transcripts

(b) Evidence of competence in English (if appropriate)

(c) Details of two academic referees

(d) CV/resume

Please quote reference SW45073 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.