PhD Studentship: Hematopoietic Specification using Single-cell in Vivo CRISPR Screen

Primary Supervisor - Dr Gi Fay Mok 

Are you passionate about revolutionary research in stem cell biology, gene regulation, and cutting-edge molecular techniques? Join our innovative project, Hematopoietic Specification Using Single-Cell In Vivo CRISPR Screen, where you will delve into the genetic blueprint of blood formation and make impactful discoveries with real-world applications. 

We have an exciting PhD opportunity investigating the genetic code of blood formation using cutting-edge CRISPR technologies. Blood is life’s vital fluid, continuously replenishing itself through a complex process known as hematopoiesis. This intricate process is orchestrated by a rare population of cells called hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), responsible for producing all blood cells. Despite advances, the precise gene regulatory mechanisms guiding HSC formation during embryonic development remain elusive. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for advancing treatments for blood disorders, cancers, and generating blood sources in vitro. 

In this project, you will employ state-of-the-art single-cell CRISPR screening techniques during chick embryo development to identify novel genes and pathways involved in the formation of HSCs. The project is joint between groups of Gi Fay Mok and David Monk at UEA and Iain Macaulay and Wilfried Haerty at EI. You will design a custom guide RNA (gRNA) library, perform in vivo microinjections, and use advanced bioinformatics to analyse gene regulatory networks. You will gain expertise in molecular biology, high-throughput sequencing, and computational biology, equipping you with a versatile skill set highly sought after in both academia and industry. 

The discoveries you make could lead to new therapeutic strategies for blood disorders, improved stem cell therapies, and enhance our understanding of genetic regulation in development. By joining this project, you will be at the forefront of a field with vast translational potential, contributing to breakthroughs that could change the future of medicine. 

Contact Dr Gi Fay Mok (g.mok@uea.ac.uk) for more information and discussions about the project. 

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2025 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP CASE students undertake a three to 18-month placement with the non-academic partner during their study. The placement offers experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. 

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 28, 29 or 30 January 2025.  

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/  

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. 

Additional Funding Information

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD DTP studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2024/5 stipend rate: £19,237), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship

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