Exploring niche cell–cell communication through alternative splicing

Cells in the body constantly send and receive messages to coordinate development, maintain health, and respond to disease. Many of these messages are passed through cell surface proteins - receptors and ligands - that allow cells to “talk” to one another.

Recent research shows that the instructions for building these proteins can be edited by cells in real-time through a process called alternative splicing, resulting in different versions (or isoforms) of the same protein with very different functions.

This PhD project will explore how alternative splicing of receptor and ligand proteins changes how cells interact within important biological environments, or niches - specifically in the bone marrow stem cell niche and in tissue-resident immune cells.

Using cutting-edge single-cell long-read RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, you will:

• uncover hidden complexity in how cells communicate,
• build new maps of receptor-ligand interactions with cellular resolution
• help create tools to study these interactions at the isoform level.

Working with Dr Iain Macaulay at the Earlham Institute, and Dr Tiago Luis at Imperial College London, this project will be supported by an interdisciplinary team of experts in genomics, immunology, and clinical research, and have access to world-class facilities at the Earlham Institute and Imperial.

You will receive training in advanced cell sorting, long-read sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and computational biology - skills in high demand across both academic and applied research settings.

This project is suited to individuals with a curiosity for gene regulation, immune function, and technology development, with long-term relevance for understanding inflammation, autoimmunity, and tissue regeneration.

Application information:

• Apply by 23.59 on 02 December 2025
• Visit the NRPDTP website for further information on eligibility, funding and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/
• You can also visit: https://www.earlham.ac.uk/application-guidance

Related reading:

• Why study at the Earlham Institute?
• Living in Norfolk
• Life at the Earlham Institute