EB-R - Marie Sklodowska Curie Actions Doctoral Network -TRACT

We have an opportunity to join us and study for your PhD, developing novel oligonucleotide (ON) analogues for medicinal applications. We are seeking an outstanding Doctoral Candidate (DC) for a fully funded studentship as part of the Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network “Oligo Nucleotide Technologies for Rapid Advancement of Cancer Therapies ON-TRACT.” The studentship covers UK fees and provides a salary, consumables, and travel budget.

Based in the School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, you will research the design and evaluation of novel ON systems and analogue models to target specific structures of oncogenic mRNAs, avoiding global translation inhibition and testing efficacy in organoid models.

Responsibilities include defining research questions, conducting independent research, collaborating with ON-TRACT partners, engaging in training, and disseminating results in high-impact venues. You will work as part of an interdisciplinary team and develop a wide-ranging skill set.

• You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or Masters, or its international equivalent in Chemistry. A strong background in organic chemistry is essential.
• You must fulfil the following Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network criteria:
• you must not yet been awarded a doctoral degree and be eligible to enrol in a PhD programme
• mobility rule: you must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the UK for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date.
• You should be able to start the job by 1st January 2027.
• Upon appointment the role title will be "MSCA Doctoral Network Research Fellow".

The funding for this PhD studentships is offered as part of the ON-TRACT network coordinated by Southampton; further information can be obtained from Prof. Eugen Stulz ().

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work.

With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme.

Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.

Salary: £40,000 to £50,000 a year

Hours:

Full-time

Location:

Southampton, SO17 1BJ

Working pattern:
On-site

Job type:
Contract

Posting date: 23 Oct 2026

Closing date: 28 Oct 2026