PhD Studentship: Comparative innate immune sensing of zoonotic viruses

Project title: Comparative innate immune sensing of zoonotic viruses - Professor Brian Ferguson

Why do some viruses cause severe disease after they cross into a new species, while others don't? This project will investigate how differences in pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signalling between host species influence virus infection, adaptation and zoonotic emergence. We will compare PRR pathways and downstream immune responses across different host species to determine how variation in pathogen sensing, signalling strength and immune regulation shapes the outcomes of virus/host interactions. Using molecular virology, immunology and comparative approaches, the research will identify conserved and species-specific mechanisms that determine the outcome of cross-species infection. Understanding how PRR signalling establishes or restricts host range could provide new insights into predicting and preventing the emergence of novel viral pathogens.

The Department of Pathology has an excellent reputation in pure biological and biomedical research and is offering fully funded* studentships from October 2027 to work with one of the Research Group Leaders in this large and vibrant Department.

All applications should be made online via the University's Applicant Portal for a PhD in Pathology (BLPA22). A completed application must be submitted by the closing date below. An application is only complete when all supporting documents, including the 2 academic references, are submitted.

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure their referees submit their references before the closing date of the studentship.

The studentships are available to students who qualify for UK HOME FEES ONLY Please check for eligibility details using this website: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees/what-my-fee-status

Funding will cover the student's stipend at the current Research Council rate and Home University Fees.

The studentship will be funded for 4 years from October 2027.

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject. The studentship is open to those eligible for the Home rate of University fees.  Additionally, the Department requires that by the time of interview all potential students must have fulfilled the language requirements for admission. (http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/blpapdpth/requirements)

Please also explain your motivation why you wish to pursue a PhD in this area, outline your research interests and background, and describe the qualities and experience you will bring to the role.

Applications from ineligible candidates will not be considered.

Further information about the course can be found here.

Closing date: 2nd December 2026

Please quote reference PK51376 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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.