Project Title: Characterising clonal dynamics of somatic mutations in vivo for early prediction of carcinogenicity using advanced error corrected next generation sequencing
Supervisor: Dr Alex Cagan
Department: Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge
Industrial Partner: GSK
Somatic mutations drive cancer and may underlie many chronic diseases - yet current safety testing struggles to detect the earliest signals of carcinogenic risk. This PhD project aims to transform how we evaluate the potential for new drugs and chemicals to cause cancer, by tracking somatic mutations and clonal expansions in rodent tissues using cutting-edge, ultra-accurate error-corrected sequencing (ecNGS).
Working at the interface of evolutionary genomics and toxicology, the student will generate high-resolution maps of mutation burden and cancer driver mutation (CDM) dynamics in response to carcinogenic exposure. By integrating new computational and experimental approaches (e.g. Laser capture microdissection and ecNGS), and accessing samples and expertise through GSK's Investigative Toxicology group, the student will help develop a novel framework for early carcinogenicity prediction. This project offers the rare opportunity to translate high-resolution molecular data into practical tools for non-clinical drug safety and regulatory science. This has the potential to revolutionise our ability to detect and understand the carcinogenic impact of chemical compounds.
Based in the Department of Genetics at the University of Cambridge and co-supervised by GSK, the student will receive hands-on training in ecNGS library prep, experimental toxicology, and bioinformatics. The student will also gain experience in working with industry partners, contributing to translational research in regulatory genomics and drug development.
The MRC Integrative Toxicology Training Partnership (ITTP) is a national PhD training programme for capacity building in Toxicology and related disciplines.
The safe development of new drugs, materials, chemicals and consumer products along with the assessment of risk from environmental exposure requires the integration of cutting-edge science with traditional toxicology. The ITTP provides a training platform to enable this and aims to bring together academia, industry and government agencies to provide the required expertise.
ITTP students attend a once yearly residential toxicology training course, have access to the MRC Toxicology Unit's Masterclass seminar series and attend toxicology and laboratory training in their host institutions.
We are looking for a motivated student with a strong background in genomics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics. This interdisciplinary project would suit someone interested in cancer biology, somatic evolution, toxicology, or the development of predictive models of disease. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently in a supportive research environment.
Full funding is provided for 4 years for UK home-fee eligible students, including: - UKRI stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26) - University fees - £5,000 per year for consumables - £25 per year for society membership
To apply please visit: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/ and click 'Apply Now' selecting the following course:
- PhD in Genetics(Full-time)
- Start Date: 1st October 2025
- Project Supervisor: Dr Alex Cagan
- Project Title: Include title as listed above
- Research Proposal: Include project details as listed above
Applications should include: - Two academic references - Transcript - CV/resume - Evidence of competence in English (If required - you can check using our tool) - Statement of Interest outlining your suitability, why you are interested in a PhD in this area, your background and research interests. - School of Biological Sciences - Widening Participation Questionnaire (applicants are asked to complete an additional form to provide contextual information about their previous study. Find out more about our use of contextual information here: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying/contextual-data
Completed applications (with ALL supporting documentation and references) to be submitted via the portal by 23:59pm (midnight) UK time on the 6th June 2025 at the latest. Interviews will be scheduled for the 18th June.
For queries related to this PhD studentship, please contact Dr Alex Cagan email atjc2@cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference PC45937 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.