PhD Studentship: Identifying Novel Anti-malarial Transmission Blocking Vaccine Targets on the Parasitic Zygote

Applications are invited for a fully-funded 4-year PhD studentship based in the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge under the supervision of Dr Andrew Blagborough starting October 2025. 

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes, remains a devastating infectious disease. Within the mosquito, the malaria parasite undergoes a complex and delicate lifecycle that can be successfully targeted using transmission blocking vaccines (TBVs). The most promising lifecycle stages to target with TBVs is the parasitic ookinete, a motile zygote that is essential for transmission. However, our knowledge of the surface proteins that can initiate an immunological response on the ookinete surface is limited. Using novel genetically altered parasites, this project aims to identify novel TBV targets on the surface of the ookinete, building a molecular map of the poorly understood parasite surface and facilitating the development of novel anti-malarial TBVs.  

For a more detailed description of the project and application, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Funding* will cover the student's stipend at the current Research Council rate and University Fees. The studentship will be funded for four years from October 2025. *The studentships are available to students who qualify for UK Home fees.

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject. The studentship is open to those eligible for the Home rate of University fees.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

All applications should be made online via the University's Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22).

Applications should include academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose and 2 references. An application is only complete when all supporting documents, including the 2 academic references, are submitted. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure their referees submit their references before the closing date. 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.

Please quote reference PK43588 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.

Closing date: 03 January 2025

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