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🧬 3 Fully Funded PhD Positions – Cancer Biology, Multi-Omics & Drug Discovery | Apoptosis Research Centre, University of Galway
Institution: University of Galway – Apoptosis Research Centre (ARC)
📍 Location: Galway, Ireland
💼 Positions Available: 3 Fully Funded PhD Positions
🔬 Research Areas: Cancer Biology | Triple-Negative Breast Cancer | Molecular & Cell Biology | Multi-Omics | Computational Biology | Drug Discovery | Computational Chemistry
The Apoptosis Research Centre (ARC) at the University of Galway is inviting applications from motivated early-stage researchers for three fully funded, 4-year PhD positions.
The research projects focus on IRE1-dependent pathways in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting IRE1. The projects combine molecular and cell biology, multi-omics analysis, computational approaches, advanced cancer models, and drug discovery.
🔬 Research Background
IRE1 is an endoplasmic reticulum-resident protein with RNase activity that is constitutively activated in cancer cells. It plays an important role in processes associated with tumour growth, metastasis, metabolic reprogramming, and therapy resistance.
However, the targets of IRE1, the pathways it regulates, and its therapeutic potential are not yet fully understood. These PhD projects aim to advance knowledge of IRE1 biology and explore new therapeutic approaches for cancer.
🔬 Available PhD Projects
Project 1: Identification and Characterisation of Pathways Regulated by IRE1
This project integrates molecular biology with multi-omics analysis, including:
- Transcriptomics
- Proteomics
- Metabolomics
- Ribosome profiling
- Computational approaches
The PhD researcher will integrate and analyse multi-omics datasets and perform validation experiments using TNBC cell models.
A strong interest in computational biology, bioinformatics, and multi-omics data integration is desirable. Previous experience in these areas would be an advantage.
Project 2: Development of 3-D TNBC Models to Study IRE1 Biology
This project focuses on the functional analysis of IRE1-regulated pathways using 3-D models of triple-negative breast cancer.
The research will combine cellular and molecular biology approaches, including:
- CRISPR/Cas9 gene knockout
- Live-cell imaging
- RNA analysis
- High-content phenotypic assays
The researcher will investigate how IRE1 influences:
- Cancer cell behaviour
- Tumour progression
- Response to therapy
Project 3: Characterisation and Optimisation of Novel IRE1 Inhibitors for Cancer Drug Development
This project focuses on the characterisation and optimisation of novel lead compounds targeting IRE1.
The successful candidate will combine:
- Computational chemistry
- Structure-based drug design
- Experimental cell biology
Research will investigate the activity, selectivity, and therapeutic potential of candidate compounds and contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for cancer.
A strong background in computational chemistry, along with an interest in drug discovery, drug design, and cancer cell biology, is particularly desirable.
🎯 Essential Requirements
Applicants should have:
- A minimum 2:1 (upper second-class honours) Bachelor’s degree, or an international equivalent, in a relevant discipline.
- Qualifications that meet the academic entry requirements for a PhD programme in the country where the degree was awarded.
- A strong academic record and relevant research experience.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Strong motivation and interest in cancer research and the selected project area.
Applicants should clearly indicate their preferred project of interest in their application.
🌟 What You’ll Gain
Successful PhD researchers will receive:
- Advanced research training in a multidisciplinary research environment.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Expert academic supervision and research mentorship.
- Training across cancer cell biology and advanced experimental approaches.
- Experience in high-content imaging and multi-omics analysis.
- Training in computational biology and computational chemistry.
- Exposure to advanced cancer models and drug discovery research.
- Opportunities for professional development and advanced research training.
- Support for conference travel and research visits.
💰 Funding Support
Position Type: Fully Funded PhD
Number of Positions: 3
Duration: 4 Years
Annual Stipend: EUR 25,000
Tuition Fees: Fully Covered
Additional support includes:
- Funding for travel to conferences and research visits.
- Access to advanced research training.
- Professional and career development opportunities.
📄 How to Apply
Applicants should submit a single PDF document containing:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Including contact details for three academic referees.
- Statement of Research Interests – Maximum 2 pages, clearly indicating the PhD project of interest.
📧 Email Applications To
Prof. Afshin Samali
Email: afshin.samali@universityofgalway.ie
📅 Application Deadline
1 September 2026
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
📌 Job Details
Institution: University of Galway
Research Centre: Apoptosis Research Centre (ARC)
Positions: 3 Fully Funded PhD Positions
Location: Galway, Ireland
Research Areas: Cancer Biology | Triple-Negative Breast Cancer | Molecular Biology | Cell Biology | Multi-Omics | Bioinformatics | Computational Biology | Computational Chemistry | Drug Discovery
Research Focus: IRE1-Dependent Pathways and Novel Therapeutic Strategies Targeting IRE1
Qualification: Minimum 2:1 Bachelor’s Degree or International Equivalent in a Relevant Discipline
Funding: Fully Funded
Stipend: EUR 25,000 Per Year
Tuition Fees: Covered
Duration: 4 Years
Application Mode: Email
Application Email: afshin.samali@universityofgalway.ie
Application Deadline: 1 September 2026
Category
PhD Position | Fully Funded PhD | Cancer Biology | Breast Cancer Research | Molecular Biology | Cell Biology | Multi-Omics | Bioinformatics | Computational Biology | Computational Chemistry | Drug Discovery | Research Jobs | PhD Jobs | Ireland Jobs | University Jobs
🏷️ Tags
#PhDPosition #FullyFundedPhD #PhDJobs #UniversityOfGalway #CancerBiology #BreastCancerResearch #TNBC #MolecularBiology #CellBiology
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