PhD Studentship: Pre-mRNA Splicing Regulation in Human Cancers by snRNA Modifications

Primary Supervisor – Dr Alper Akay

We are looking for enthusiastic students to join our RNA (epi)Genetics Lab to study the function of RNA modifications in RNA splicing in human cancers.  

Pre-mRNA splicing is an essential cellular process carried out by the spliceosome which removes introns and brings exons together for many mRNAs in human cells. The accuracy and efficiency of the spliceosome are often compromised in many human diseases, such as developmental disorders and cancers. Mutations in the DNA can lead to RNA molecules that the spliceosome can no longer accurately recognise or recognise wrong sequences. This can have profound implications for human health, as cells may end up lacking the function of important proteins such as tumour suppressors or may end up with proteins that function in undesired ways such as oncogenes.   

Our group recently discovered that one of the components of the spliceosome, U6 snRNA, recognises specific RNA splicing sequences that are mutated in human cancers. This PhD project aims to reveal how pre-mRNA splicing is regulated by snRNA modifications in human cancers.   

This project is suitable for students who are interested in RNA biology, biochemistry, cell biology and RNA sequencing.  

We offer a multidisciplinary and supportive research environment at the UEA and the Norwich Research Park. The student will have a wide range of support to learn different techniques and interact with national and international laboratories working on RNA modifications and splicing. The student will attend national and international conferences and will be given internal and external mentorship and career development support. Our RNA (epi)genetics laboratory is funded by a prestigious UK Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellowship and provides generous resources and instruments.   

Shen,A. et al. (2024) U6 snRNA m6A modification is required for accurate and efficient splicing of C. elegans and human pre-mRNAs. Nucleic Acids Research.

Funding Details

Additional Funding Information

This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises ‘home’ tuition fees and an annual stipend of £19,237 (for a maximum 3 years)

Closing Date: 27 November 2024 (at 11.59 pm) 

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