Epigenetics of circulating cell-free DNA - Funded PhD in Genetics & Genomics (University of Exeter) Ref: 5517

Supervisors

Primary: Dr Kiki Cano-Gamez - Exeter University

Secondary: Dr Emma Dempster - Exeter University

The University of Exeter’s Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences is inviting applications for a PhD studentship in Genetics and Genomics to commence in September 2025. This studentship covers UK tuition fees, an annual tax-free stipend of £20,780 for 3 years full-time (pro rata for part-time study), and a research and training supporting grant of £7,500. The student will be based at the RILD Building at the Royal Devon and Exeter (RD&E) Hospital site.   Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a collection of DNA fragments that exist outside cells and circulate in our bloodstream. Because cell-free DNA is a byproduct of cell death, it provides important information about the state of organs and tissues throughout the body. For example, during severe infection and other immune diseases (e.g. lupus and arthritis), immune cells die and release DNA into the circulation. 

The same is true for the brain in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. If detected and measured, this DNA could be used to better diagnose and treat diseases. Importantly, cfDNA can be obtained from simple a blood sample, removing the need for biopsies and invasive procedures. Despite recent advances in this field, little is known about the origins and fate of cfDNA. For example, we ignore exactly how cells produce most of it, how it is removed from the circulation, and how it could best be used as a diagnostic tool.

 This funded PhD studentship at the University of Exeter will apply genomics methods to investigate the biology of cfDNA, with the long-term aim of building more sensitive diagnostics to detect unusual forms of circulating DNA in patients with immune and neurodegenerative diseases. The student will investigate which organs produce cfDNA, which cells clear it, and which of its molecular characteristics can be of greatest clinical value. To achieve this, the student will use cutting-edge sequencing technologies and data science tools to better understand the epigenetic characteristics of cfDNA. This studentship is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in genomics, as well as state-of-the-art data science and computational methods in modern biology. 

We encourage applications from students interested in epigenetics, personalised medicine, and genomics. We particularly welcome applications from students from underrepresented backgrounds (e.g. members of the BAME or LGBTQ+ communities, as well as neurodivergent or otherwise disabled individuals). 

The studentship will be awarded based on merit. International students are eligible to apply but should note the award will only provide payment for part of the international tuition fee (~£25k) and no stipend. International applicants will also have to cover the cost of their student visa, healthcare surcharge and costs of moving to the UK. Thus, they are encouraged to find additional sources of funding. 

For this purpose, they can refer to https://exeter.shinyapps.io/funding_finder/. The conditions for eligibility of home fees status are complex and you will need to seek advice if you have moved to or from the UK (or Republic of Ireland) within the past 3 years or have applied for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of study such as Genetics, Biological Sciences, Biomedical/Medical Sciences, Medicine, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Computer Science, Mathematics or Neuroscience. If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information.

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents: 

• CV 

• Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project). 

• Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying) 

• Two references from referees familiar with your academic work. If your referees prefer, they can email the reference direct to PGRApplicants@exeter.ac.uk quoting the studentship reference number.

• If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English. 

The closing date for applications is midnight on 6th May 2025. Interviews will be held virtually or in person at the University of Exeter’s St Luke’s Campus in the week commencing May 19th. All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided. Please quote reference 5517 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

Summary