Fully-funded PhD studentship: Understanding the identity and function of tumour-initiating states

Supervisor: Prof Masashi Narita

Department/location: Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute

Deadline for application: 16th October 2026

Course start date: 1st October 2027

Project details

For further information about the research group, including their most recent publications, please visit their website at

Our laboratory investigates the biology of preneoplastic cell states, with particular interest in how changes in cell functional identity and plasticity are controlled by the epigenome. We are interested in how oncogenic and metabolic signalling reshapes chromatin organisation and gene regulation, how these changes influence cellular fitness and tissue microenvironment, and which states ultimately suppress or promote tumour development.

The PhD project will investigate the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying transitions between preneoplastic cell states using diverse models, both in vitro and in vivo. The precise direction of the project will be developed according to the student's interests and emerging findings in the laboratory. Depending on the specific questions addressed, approaches may include mammalian cell culture, molecular and cell biology, genetic perturbation, imaging, epigenetic and chromatin profiling, and in vivo models of early tumorigenesis. Genomic and single-cell approaches may also be used, supported by collaboration with computational scientists.

References/further reading

• Zhu H, Chan ASL & Narita M. The rise of RAS: how gradual oncogene activation shapes the OIS spectrum. Genes & Development (2025).
• Chan ASL et al. Oncogenic RAS drives a spectrum of cellular states with distinct tumour-propagating potential. Nature (2024).
• Olan I, Ando-Kuri M, Parry AJ et al. HMGA1 orchestrates chromatin compartmentalization and sequesters genes into 3D networks coordinating senescence heterogeneity. Nature Communications 15, 6891 (2024).
• Cassidy LD et al. Temporal inhibition of autophagy reveals segmental reversal of ageing with increased cancer risk. Nature Communications 11, 307 (2020).
• Olan I, Handa T & Narita M. Beyond SAHF: an integrative view of chromatin compartmentalization during senescence. Trends in Cell Biology (2023).

Preferred Skills/knowledge

Previous hands-on laboratory research experience is highly desirable. Experience in one or more of the following would be advantageous but is not essential: mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, genetic manipulation, chromatin or epigenetic assays, and cancer or ageing model systems.

The successful candidate should have a strong interest in mechanistic biology and in using experimental approaches to understand fundamental questions in cancer development.

Computational or bioinformatics expertise is advantageous but not required. Training and collaborative support will be available to analyse genomic datasets generated during the project.

Eligibility

We welcome applications from both UK and overseas students.

Applications are invited from recent graduates or final-year undergraduates who hold or expect to gain a First/Upper Second Class degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject from any recognised university worldwide.

Applicants with relevant research experience, gained through Master's study or while working in a laboratory, are strongly encouraged to apply.

References

We would appreciate it if you could ask your referees to submit their references as soon as possible upon request, despite the longer University deadline for references. They will receive a request once you have completed the References section of your application.

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.