Full-time PhD studentship (Reeves Group) Full-time

Full-time PhD Studentship (Reeves Group)

We are interested in human cytomegalovirus – a virus that is a major cause of disease in immune-compromised individuals. Our lab seeks to understand how the virus causes disease and, concomitantly, how we can use the immune system to protect us from disease.

About the Role

We are seeking a talented young scientist who wants to study for a PhD at UCL – one of the top ranked universities in the world. If successful, you will join a team of researchers that work on the molecular mechanisms that govern viral infection and the immune responses that control it. The specific project concerns a novel immune response we have identified in recipients of a previous vaccine which we hypothesise is an important mechanistic correlate of protection. Thus your role will be to lead on new project that will investigate whether a novel RNA technology can be used to make a vaccine based on that target. This is an interdisciplinary project at the interface of chemistry, in vivo immunology and in vitro cell biology.

About You

The successful applicant will develop and take ownership of the research project. Performance will be assessed by the PI and also through regular meetings with the thesis committee. The applicant will perform well designed and executed experiments, undertake rigorous analysis of the data. Progression of PhD students at UCL is dependent on a successful upgrade viva and award of a PhD upon successful defence of a novel body of research work commensurate with 3.5 years of research in the laboratory. You will be highly motivated to carry out scientific research, an excellent communicator, a critical thinker and contribute to the general running of the laboratory (i.e a team player). You will also engage with the wider academic community at the IIT and UCL to expand your network and learning opportunities.

What We Offer

• A full-time stipend for 3.5 years (aligned with the Kidney Research UK Studentship)
• Coverage of UCL registration fees (home fees)
• Provision for research lab consumables
• Travel budget to present at conferences

NB: You will be asked about your likely fee status at the interview so we would advise you to contact the UCL Graduate Admissions Office for advice should you be unsure whether or not you meet the eligibility criteria for Home fee status. Further information on Brexit and the definitions for fee status assessment can be found on the UCL website and also the UKCISA website (Higher Education: Definitions for fee status assessment).

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.