PhD Studentship

Job title:

PhD Studentship

Company:

University College London

Job description

About us We are a dynamic research group within the Department of Ageing, Rheumatology and Regenerative Medicine, part of the UCL Division of Medicine. Under the vision of UCL Medicine to advance transformative healthcare through research excellence, we are seeking a motivated PhD student to join our multidisciplinary team advancing understanding of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and related autoimmune diseases. Our translational research spans fundamental immunology through to clinical applications, with key strengths in biomarker discovery, advanced flow cytometry, transcriptomics, metagenomics, and AI-driven data analysis. Led by Professor Michael Ehrenstein and Dr Muhammad Shipa, our team includes Dr Claire Beesley, an experienced postdoctoral researcher, and a dedicated research nurse supporting clinical sample collection and coordination. We collaborate closely with leading institutions including the Wellcome Sanger Institute, and have delivered major academic clinical trials that have shaped lupus research and treatment. We offer an excellent training environment, state-of-the-art technology, and strong academic and industry partnerships. Further information about our research can be found at: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/medical-sciences/divisions/medicine/research/rheumatology/rheumatology-bloomsbury If you are passionate about the molecular mechanisms of autoimmune disease and keen to contribute to advances in precision medicine, we would love to hear from you. For further queries, please contact Dr Shipa at m.shipa@ucl.ac.ukAbout the role This PhD studentship explores how the gut microbiome influences immune responses in SLE. You will conduct laboratory research using techniques such as advanced flow cytometry and metagenomics to study human samples. The role involves experimental design, rigorous data analysis, and integration of immune and microbiome datasets. You will collaborate with the Wellcome Sanger Institute, contribute to team meetings and scientific presentations, and receive comprehensive mentorship. The position provides training in cellular immunology, microbiome science, and professional development within a leading multidisciplinary team.About you You should hold (or expect to obtain) a first-class BSc or Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, immunology, microbiology, or a related field. Experience with cell or molecular biology, immunological techniques, or microbiome analysis is highly desirable. You are enthusiastic about translational immunology and committed to careful data analysis, collaboration, and safe handling of human samples. Strong organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential, as well as a readiness to work flexibly across both UCL and the Wellcome Sanger Institute.What we offer This is an opportunity to join a multidisciplinary team working across the Division of Medicine. As well as the opportunities this role presents, we also offer further benefits some of which are below: • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan • Immigration loan • On-site nursery • On-site gym • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service • Discounted medical insurance Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.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. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.

Expected salary

Location

North West London

Job date

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 22:22:18 GMT

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