Mapping DNA damage and genome replication in malaria parasites with artificial intelligence and long-read sequencing

Applications are invited for a fully-funded 4-year PhD studentship based in the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge under the supervision of Dr Michael Boemo starting October 2025.

Malaria parasites replicate their genomes very differently to human cells, making genome replication an attractive therapeutic target for antimalarial drugs. The purpose of this research is to develop artificial intelligence software that leverages the power of long-read DNA sequencing to determine the genomic loci of DNA damage caused by these drugs and how this damage changes the movement of replication forks throughout the genome.

The student will have the opportunity to learn, or improve upon, the development of artificial intelligence for translational research in a supportive and collaborative environment.

More information about the Boemo Group is available at and .

Funding* will cover the student's stipend at the current Research Council rate and University Fees. The studentship will be funded for four years from October 2025. *The studentships are available to students who qualify for UK Home fees.

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK 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.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

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.