PhD Studentship in Molecular and Cellular Function at University of Manchester 2026

University of Manchester is calling for applications for this fully funded PhD studentship which focuses on Using optogenetics to investigate the interrelationship between tissue patterning and biomechanics.

This PhD requires a highly driven and technically able student to tackle this challenging but exciting project. They will use a combination of mosaic CRISPR-CAS9 and optogenetic approaches to determine how cell and tissue scale patterning alters force propagation within developing zebrafish hindbrain. This work will use cutting edge optogenetic, genetic, imaging and quantitative approaches to further understanding of the fundamental process of developmental tissue patterning, together making a scientifically excellent research project. Objectives are based on previous work in the lab, and optogenetic approaches are already established, making the project feasible. The project is interdisciplinary, using machine learning and advanced segmentation and computational analysis alongside optogenetic and genetic approaches. Both data science and in vivo research will be used. 

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineDecember 7, 2025
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Manchester
• City to studyManchester
• School to studyUniversity of Manchester
• Course to studyBiological Sciences , Biomedial Science
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• The BBSRC studentships provide full funding for tuition fees and a stipend at the Research Councils UK (UKRI) rate for four years starting in September 2026.
• Please note, candidates will need to cover the cost of relocation and any associated costs (e.g. visa, health surcharges).

Requirements

• Applicants should hold (or be about to obtain) a First or Upper Second class (2:1) UK honours degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject.   
• Candidates must contact the primary supervisor before applying to discuss their interest in the project and assess their suitability.    

Check also:
Wits-Edinburgh Programme in Sustainable African Futures by Mastercard Foundation 2026-2027
Department of Aeronautics MSc Scholarship at Imperial College London 2026

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Apply directly via this link: https://tinyurl.com/zycedema or on the online application portal, select BBSRC DTP PhD as the programme of study. You may apply for up to two projects within this scheme. To do so, submit a single online application listing both project titles and the names of both main supervisors in the relevant sections.    
• Please ensure that your application includes all required supporting documents:   
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)    
  • Supporting Statement    
  • Academic Certificates and Transcripts   
• Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Further details are available on University of Manchester website: BBSRC North West Doctoral Programme in Bioscience | Biology, Medicine and Health | The University of Manchester 

To learn more, visit University of Manchester Scholarship webpage