RNA Beneath the Surface: How does mRNA structure and stability affect protein translation and vaccine efficiency?
Fact file
| Duration |
Three years |
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| Eligibility |
Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, chemistry, or a related field, or a minimum of a 2.2 degree and a Master’s degree in similar subjects.
This is a fully funded studentship (home fees and stipend) open to UK nationals. Fee status will be assessed on application. |
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| Supervisor(s) |
Dr Aditi N Borkar |
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| Start date |
1st April 2026 or 1st July 2026 |
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| Application deadline |
Please send in your applications as soon as possible, and no later than 8th February 2026 |
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About the project
We invite applications for a fully funded PhD studentship at UK home rates to investigate the effect of 3D structure on mRNA stability and expression.
As a PhD student on this project, you will be at the heart of an exciting interdisciplinary effort to develop cryogenic OrbiSIMS, a unique high-resolution mass spectrometry imaging platform, for uncovering the structural rules that govern mRNA function. You will also explore whether freeze-drying formulations can eliminate cold-chain dependency of vaccine supply chain, thus contributing to equitable healthcare access worldwide.
The project offers training in RNA and cell biology, advanced analytical techniques, lipid nanoparticle formulation, and data analysis, supported by collaborations with AstraZeneca and University of Kent. providing access to state-of-the-art facilities.
This role thus offers a unique opportunity to grow as a researcher through cross-institutional and interdisciplinary supervision, while contributing to high-impact outputs and shaping the future of mRNA vaccine design.
We welcome applicants from a range of educational backgrounds and research experience in biological or chemical sciences and who are excited to explore interdisciplinary research. From a prospective student, we would expect a strong understanding of molecular biology, structure and interactions, familiarity with basic computational or numerical skills and excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Why Join Us?
- Access the UK's only university-based cryo-OrbiSIMS facility (£2.5M EPSRC-funded)
- Collaborate with AstraZeneca and leading academic partners
- Train in multidisciplinary techniques: RNA biology, mass spectrometry, structural modelling, and data science
- Be part of vibrant research clusters in One Virology and Interdisciplinary RNA Custer at Nottingham
- Present your work at national and international conferences
Research Environment
University of Nottingham is a research-intensive university in the Russell Group, ranking 7th in the UK for Research Power (Research Excellence Framework 2021). 90% of our research is classed as "world-leading" (4*) or "internationally excellent" (3*) and our research collaborations and networks extend nationally and internationally. Research undertaken at the School is relevant to both Veterinary Medicine and Science, One Health, and Comparative and Human Medicine.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, chemistry, or a related field, or a minimum of a 2.2 degree and a Master’s degree in similar subjects.
Funding notes
This is a fully funded studentship (home fees and stipend) open to UK nationals. Fee status will be assessed on application.
How to apply
Informal enquiries may be addressed to the principal supervisor: svzanb@nottingham.ac.uk
Candidates should apply online and include a CV. When completing the online application form, please select the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, then PhD Veterinary Medicine and Science (36m) and, once submitted, send your student ID number to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.
Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.
Interview Date: January - February 2026