BSMS > Postgraduate > Research degrees > PhD opportunities

PhD opportunities

All our current PhD studentship opportunities are listed on this page.

In order to apply, please visit the University of Brighton website by clicking the “Apply Now” link below, and select “Doctoral College” as the School. You should then select the project that you wish to apply for.

Apply for your PHD here >

We are also happy to consider applications from self-funded individuals, and for personally developed projects, we recommend an approach to a lead supervisor, following which you will have help and support with your application.

For self-funded and speculative applications, we require that you submit a research proposal alongside your application. Within this you should take the opportunity to clearly outline your research idea; your research methodology and critical approaches; experience; and original contribution to knowledge and key themes, concepts and ideas. See our guidance on writing a research proposal >

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

Recombinant protein therapeutics for pain in osteoarthritis: from bench to preclinical models

Supervisors: Dr Lisa Mullen Prof Andrew Dilley

Application deadline: Friday 30 January 2026

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

About the Project

Applications are invited for a 3-year funded PhD studentship at Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

Project details

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease worldwide, affecting c. 10 million people in the UK alone. The hallmarks of OA are degradation of joint cartilage and changes to the underlying bone. These structural changes are progressive and eventually result in a non-functional joint for which the only treatment is major joint replacement surgery. A major hallmark of OA is intense pain in the affected joint(s) that can severely compromise mobility and quality of life. Despite many developments in our understanding of the pathogenesis of OA, there are no effective disease-modifying or pain-relieving treatments for OA. The neurotrophin, nerve growth factor (NGF) protein is the best validated target in OA pain, with proven analgesic effects in preclinical and clinical studies. However, development of NGF-targeted therapies have been hampered by unwanted side-effects.

A novel protein drug-delivery system (known as the latency-associated peptide (LAP) technology) enables creation of protein therapies in a biologically inactive form, that are then activated in the body only at the site(s) of disease. This localised approach eliminates the side effects seen with more standard therapies. The aim of this project is to use this drug-delivery strategy to engineer antibody fragments specific for NGF receptors to inhibit NGF signalling within the OA joint and prevent activation of the local nerve fibres that generate pain.

The aims of the project are to: engineer, clone and express recombinant LAP-fusion proteins that can inhibit NGF receptors, assess the therapeutic potential of these LAP proteins on relevant cell types in vitro and in vivo, and define the relationship between cartilage degradation and pain. Key methodologies include cloning and expression of recombinant proteins, RNA sequencing, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs) and Western blotting as well as in vivo models of disease.

Research Environment

The successful candidate will integrate into a well-established, multidisciplinary biochemistry/immunology/rheumatology group at BSMS consisting of teams led by Dr Lisa Mullen, Professor Sandra Sacre, and Professor Katherine Staines at the University of Brighton. These groups are also part of a wider vibrant and active Musculoskeletal Group which consists of teams from the University of Sussex, University of Brighton and BSMS creating a dynamic and collaborative environment conducive to productive training.

Dr Lisa Mullen’s expertise is in generating novel recombinant proteins for efficient delivery to sites of disease in vivo as well as interests in innate immune responses in rheumatic disease. Professor Andrew Dilley is professor of Neuroanatomy whose research encompasses both laboratory and human studies into the role of peripheral neuroinflammation in chronic musculoskeletal pain.

The project provides diverse training opportunities, enabling the student to gain crucial skills across various areas such as cell biology, cell signalling, drug targeting, recombinant protein therapeutics and disease models. On completion of the project, it is expected that future post-doctoral research in the fields of cell or molecular biology, protein biochemistry and/or therapeutics will be the natural progression from this work.

Entry requirements

This studentship is suitable for those with background in biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical science or another relevant subject area. We invite applications from students who have received or are on target to achieve a relevant undergraduate degree with minimum 2:1 classification (or equivalent). An MSc and previous laboratory experience are desirable but not essential.

How to apply

Applicants must apply through the University of Brighton application portal (StudentView) where they can submit a CV and complete the application form. The deadline for applications is 30th January 2026. Interviews will be held in February 2026. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be submitted to Dr Lisa Mullen (l.mullen@bsms.ac.uk).

Funding Notes

This is a 3-year PhD studentship funded by Brighton and Sussex Medical funded, starting on 1 October 2026. Funding will cover tuition fees for UK students (at the Home rate), a stipend at the UKRI rate and a research allowance which will cover research running costs. International applicants are welcome to apply but will be required to cover the difference between Home and International fees.

References

Simoes FA, Scutt G, Mengozzi M, Mitchell SA, Keen J, Staines KA, Troeberg L, Poulet B, Pitsillides AA, Mullen LM. Development of a translational strategy for using TIMP-3 to inhibit aggrecanase activity in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2025 Sep 8:S1063-4584(25)01131-8. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2025.09.002. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40930457.
Alberts BM, Sacre SM, Bush PG, Mullen LM. Engineering of TIMP-3 as a LAP-fusion protein for targeting to sites of inflammation. J Cell Mol Med. 2019 Feb;23(2):1617-1621. doi: 10.1111/jcmm.14019. Epub 2018 Nov 18. PMID: 30450736; PMCID: PMC6349231
Mullen L, Adams G, Foster J, Vessillier S, Köster M, Hauser H, Layward L, Gould D, Chernajovsky Y. A comparative study of matrix metalloproteinase and aggrecanase mediated release of latent cytokines at arthritic joints. Ann Rheum Dis. 2014 Sep;73(9):1728-36. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2013-203513. Epub 2013 Jun 27. PMID: 23813971.
Mullen L, Adams G, Layward L, Vessillier S, Annenkov A, Mittal G, Rigby A, Sclanders M, Baker D, Gould D, Chernajovsky Y. Latent cytokines for targeted therapy of inflammatory disorders. Expert Opin Drug Deliv. 2014 Jan;11(1):101-10. doi: 10.1517/17425247.2014.863872. Epub 2013 Dec 3. PMID: 24294995.

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

Ageing, menopause and HIV treatment: Linking patient priorities to clinical and quality of life outcomes across antiretroviral treatment regimens

Supervisors: Dr Kate Alford Dr Fiona Cresswell Prof Jaime Vera

Application deadline: Friday 30 January 2026

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

About the Project

Applications are invited for a 3-year funded PhD studentship at Brighton and Sussex Medical School to explore HIV treatment preferences in older and peri/post-menopausal people living with HIV. People with HIV are living longer, and those accessing HIV care are ageing: in 2023, 51% of those in care were aged 50 or older, up from 27% in 2013. As individuals living with HIV age, the balance of benefits and risks across antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens changes. Older adults and peri/post-menopausal women commonly experience multimorbidity, polypharmacy, bone and cardiometabolic risk, vasomotor and sleep disturbance, mood symptoms, and cognitive complaints, all of which can interact with ART choices. Even when virological efficacy is equivalent, differences in neuropsychiatric effects, weight gain, renal and bone safety, drug–drug interactions (including with hormone replacement therapy and medicines for ageing-related conditions), along with the practical demands of dosing or clinic visits, can meaningfully affect quality of life and treatment adherence.

Despite this, the evidence guiding regimen choice in these groups is limited. Pivotal trials that influence treatment guidelines often under-represent women, older people and exclude those with complex comorbidities. Moreover, trials rarely prioritise patient-reported outcomes such as sleep, mood, treatment satisfaction, day-to-day functioning and broader quality of life. Real-world data are fragmented and do not offer clear comparative guidance across contemporary options (e.g. different integrase inhibitor-based combinations, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor backbones and novel long-acting injectable therapy). Clinicians therefore often extrapolate data arising from younger, healthier people, risking suboptimal choices for those most affected by age- and menopause-related needs.

There is a need for clear, patient-centred evidence to determine which ART regimens optimise virological suppression, cardiovascular health, metabolic and musculoskeletal outcomes, general tolerability, and quality of life for older and peri/post-menopausal adults. A programme that integrates clinical outcomes with patient-reported measures, captures multimorbidity and polypharmacy, and considers acceptability and service delivery will influence national treatment policy and support individualised, menopause and age-responsive HIV care.

This PhD will sit within the PEARL Study, a UK research study working with several NHS hospitals to understand which HIV treatments work best for older adults and individuals around or after the menopause. Using PEARL’s data and clinic links, this PhD studentship will explore three sequential areas: first, a review of existing research to summarise which ARTs are most durable and well tolerated, and how they affect everyday life, sleep, mood, weight, bone and kidney health, overall quality of life, and treatment satisfaction. Second, interviews with older adults and peri/post-menopausal people living with HIV will identify what matters most when choosing and living with treatment, and the trade-offs people are willing to make. Third, analyses of PEARL’s real-world datasets, from people using commonly prescribed tablet regimens and those who have recently switched treatments, to assess how well different regimens deliver on those priorities to help guide future HIV care. The project includes strong patient and public involvement, national collaboration across NHS trusts, and opportunities to share findings widely so services can be tailored to what matters most to people living with HIV.

Research Environment

The student will join the HIV, Sexual Health and Women’s Health Research Group within the Department of Global Health and Infection. The group are global leaders in Ageing and HIV research, with experts in clinical HIV medicine, epidemiology, qualitative methods, psychology, health services research and patient public involvement. The group runs regular seminars and the annual UK Ageing & HIV conference. Additionally, they work closely with national and local HIV charities to support co-production, recruitment and impact. Embedded NHS partnerships include University Hospitals Sussex and a wider UK network, providing access to real-world clinics, experienced clinical research teams, robust R&D governance/data-sharing, and secure data infrastructure for mixed-methods studies.

Entry requirements

This studentship is suitable for those with background in a health-related field (e.g., public health/epidemiology, psychology, biomedical sciences, social sciences or another relevant subject area). We invite applications from students who have received or are on target to achieve a relevant undergraduate degree with minimum 2:1 classification (or equivalent). An MSc and previous research experience are desirable but not essential. Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative attitude are essential.

How to apply

Applicants must apply through the University’s application Portal (StudentView) where they can submit a CV and complete the application form. The deadline for applications is 30th January 2026. Interviews will be held in February 2026. Informal enquiries are very much welcomed and should be submitted to Dr Kate Alford – K.Alford3@bsms.ac.uk

Funding Notes

This is a 3-year PhD studentship funded by Brighton and Sussex Medical funded, starting on 1 October 2025. Funding will cover tuition fees for UK students (at the Home rate), a stipend at the UKRI rate and a research allowance which will cover research running costs. International applicants are welcome to apply but will be required to cover the difference between Home and International fees.

References

Hosein S. Biktarvy found safe and effective in people aged 65 and older. CATIE cohort. 2023.
Lazzaro A, Cacciola EG, Borrazzo C, Innocenti GP, Cavallari EN, Mezzaroma I, et al. Switching to a bictegravir single tablet regimen in elderly people living with HIV-1: data analysis from the BICTEL cohort. Diagnostics. 2021;12(1):76.
Smit M, Brinkman K, Geerlings S, Smit C, Thyagarajan K, Sighem A, et al. Future challenges for clinical care of an ageing population infected with HIV: a modelling study. Lancet Infect Dis. 2015;15(7):810-8.
Okhai H, Sabin C, Haag K, Sherr L, Dhairyawan R, Shephard J, et al. The prevalence and patterns of menopausal symptoms in women living with HIV. AIDS and Behavior. 2022;26(11):3679-88
Lee S, Oh JW, Park KM, Ahn JY, Lee S, Lee E. The prevalence and moderating factors of sleep disturbances in people living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Scientific Reports. 2024;14(1):14817.
Tariq S, Burns, F., Rolland, A., Sabin, C., Sherr, L., Gilson, R. Menopausal symptoms are associated with psychological distress in HIV+ women. 8th Internation Workshop on HIV & Women; Boston, USA2018.
Ahmed GY, Saha C, Almusalami EM, Rabaan AA, Alhumaid S, Ali AA, et al. Prevalence of Depression in Elderly People Living With HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Infectious Microbes & Diseases. 2023;5(4):167-71.

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

Reprogramming the Bone Marrow Niche: The Persistent Impact of AML Blasts on Stromal Cells and Macrophages

Supervisors: Dr Fabio Simoes Dr Lisa Mullen Dr Eleni Ladikou

Application deadline: Friday 30 January 2026

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

About the Project

Applications are invited for a 3-year funded PhD studentship at Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

Project details

Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) is a highly aggressive blood cancer characterised by the accumulation of immature myeloid cells in the bone marrow. It is the most common adult acute leukaemia in the UK, with an incidence of 4.2 per 100,000. Despite high initial remission rates of up to 80%, the 5-year survival rate remains low at 16.5%, largely due to relapse caused by chemotherapy-resistant cells in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMME).

The BMME consists of diverse cell types, including haematopoietic cells and supportive cells like mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). In AML, MSCs appear to support cancer cell drug resistance and modulate the BMME by interacting with immune cells like macrophages. However, the mechanisms by which MSCs alter macrophage function and vice versa remain poorly understood in AML.

This project aims to investigate if the changes in MSCs caused by AML persist after remission and to elucidate how these altered MSCs interact with macrophages. We want to determine if these interactions create an environment that supports AML relapse, and ultimately, find new ways to disrupt this cancer-friendly niche.

The successful candidate will employ an in vitro co-culture system, including a transwell setup, alongside a broad range of techniques to address these questions. Key methodologies include RNA sequencing, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs) and confocal microscopy to assess persistent changes in MSCs. Flow cytometry will be utilised to evaluate cell viability following chemotherapy and to analyse surface expression alterations in macrophages exposed to AML-altered MSCs. Additionally, inhibitors will be used to target pathways potentially involved in the establishment of an AML-supportive environment.

Research Environment

The successful candidate will integrate into a rapidly expanding and multidisciplinary haemato-oncology group at BSMS consisting of teams led by Dr Fabio Simoes (https://simoes.science), Professors Chris and Andrea Pepper (https://pepper.science) and Professor Simon Mitchell (https://mitchell.science). These groups are also part of a wider vibrant and active Sussex Blood Cancer Research Group which consists of teams from the University of Sussex, University of Brighton and BSMS.

Dr Mullen has extensive experience in the inflammation and innate immunity fields, and a specific interest in cytokine biology. Dr Ladikou is currently a Haematology Specialty trainee at Kings’ College Hospital and Honorary Lecturer in Haematology at BSMS. She has active research into drug resistance in AML at BSMS and has previously worked on the BMME.

In addition to this, the Sussex Cancer Research Centre (https://sussexcancer.org/) will support the student in accessing mentorship, training, and collaborations with cancer researchers across BSMS, University of Brighton, University of Sussex, and multiple NHS trusts within Sussex. The project provides diverse training opportunities, enabling the student to gain crucial skills across various areas such as cell biology, cell signalling, drug targeting, and translational haemato-oncology. This exposure aims to equip the prospective candidate with essential expertise and significant experience, enhancing their competitiveness for a postdoctoral research role, particularly within the realm of translational oncology.

Entry requirements

This studentship is suitable for those with background in biological, cancer sciences or another relevant subject area. We invite applications from students who have received or are on target to achieve a relevant undergraduate degree with minimum 2:1 classification (or equivalent). An MSc and previous laboratory experience are desirable but not essential.

How to apply

Applicants must apply through the University of Brighton application portal (StudentView) where they can submit a CV and complete the application form. The deadline for applications is 30 January 2026. Interviews will be held in February 2026. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be submitted to Dr Fabio Simoes (F.A.Simoes@bsms.ac.uk).

Funding Notes

This is a 3-year PhD studentship funded by Brighton and Sussex Medical School, starting on 1 October 2026. Funding will cover tuition fees for UK students (at the Home rate), a stipend at the UKRI rate and a research allowance which will cover research running costs. International applicants are welcome to apply but will be required to cover the difference between Home and International fees.

References

Vareli, A. et al. Systems biology-enabled targeting of NF-κΒ and BCL2 overcomes microenvironment-mediated BH3-mimetic resistance in DLBCL. Cell Death & Disease, 16(1), 620.
Norris, R. et al. Patient-specific computational models predict prognosis in B cell lymphoma by quantifying pro-proliferative and anti-apoptotic signatures from genetic sequencing data. Blood Cancer J. 14, 105 (2024).
Mullen, L., Mengozzi, M., Hanschmann, E.-M., Alberts, B. & Ghezzi, P. How the redox state regulates immunity. Free Radic. Biol. Med. 157, 3–14 (2020).
Alberts, B. M. et al. Secretion of IL-1β From Monocytes in Gout Is Redox Independent. Front. Immunol. 10, 70 (2019).
Ladikou, E. E., Sivaloganathan, H., Pepper, A. & Chevassut, T. Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in Its Niche: the Bone Marrow Microenvironment in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. Curr. Oncol. Rep. 22, 27 (2020).
Ladikou, E. E., Chevassut, T., Pepper, C. J. & Pepper, A. G. Dissecting the role of the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in acute myeloid leukaemia. Br. J. Haematol. 189, 815–825 (2020).

PhD studentships now recruited

Coping Strategy Enhancement - adapting the intervention for the treatment of hallucinations in the context of dementia
Developing a co-designed brief, low cost and scalable intervention for student carer mental health and wellbeing
Optimising infection prevention and control in healthcare settings through applied genomics and prediction
Determining the role of long non-coding RNA in the pathogenisis of high-risk gain(1q) positive, multiple myeloma
Detection and characterisation of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)
Development of a new treatment for osteoarthritis
Substance use in relation to the mental and sexual heath of vulnerable adolescents and young adults under 25 in coastal areas of Kent and Sussex
The mental health and wellbeing needs of looked after and displaced children in southeast England
Helping young people to live successfully with long-term health issues
Resourcing Resilience: Positive psychology among adolescents living with HIV
Widening access to psychological interventions for diverse communities: exploring the potential of community-led interventions
Co-producing stigma-proof mental health interventions with and for newcomers (asylum seekers, refugees and migrants) in southeast England
Defining Mycobacterium tuberculosis in lung tissue – a novel discovery platform for new vaccine and drug targets
Epidemiology of cancer in the elderly (aged > 65 years) in England
The roles of oxidative stress and redox regulation in chronic inflammatory disease (Supervisors: Dr Lisa Mullen, Prof Pietro Ghezzi, Prof Kevin Davies)
Pillars of Expertise: Visual Perception & Memory (Supervisors: Dr Natasha Sigala, Prof Mara Cercignani
Investigating the genetic basis of osteosarcoma in children & dogs (Supervisors: Prof Sarah Newbury, Dr Peter Bush, Dr Chris Jones)
The embodiment of unconscious knowledge in maladaptive behaviour (Supervisors: Prof Hugo Critchley, Dr Sarah Garfinkel, Prof Dora Duka)
Can simulation clarify diagnostic skills for newly qualified doctors? (Supervisors: Dr Inam Haq, Dr Wesley Scott-Smith)
Impact of oxytocin on emotional regulation in binge drinking and alcoholism: behavioural, physiological and fMRI investigations (Supervisors: Prof Hugo Critchley, Prof Dora Duka)
Developing an algorithm for predicting children with severe asthma (Supervisors: Prof Somnath Mukhopadhyay, Dr Katy Fidler)
Development of a refined model of neuropathic pain: a model without frank nerve injury (Supervisors: Dr Andrew Dilley, Prof Pietro Ghezzi)
Role of secreted oxidoreductases in osteoarthritis, rheumathoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (Supervisors: Prof Pietro Ghezzi, Dr Manuela Mengozzi)
Measuring quality of life in severe dementia: validation of DEMQOL-Proxy in family and professional carers of people with severe dementia (Prof Sube Banerjee, Prof Naji Tabet)
Stigma in health care: Does it influence the way general practitioners record consultations? (Supervisors: Dr Elizabeth Ford, Prof Helen Smith, Prof Flis Henwood)
Interoception and preventative intervention for anxiety in adults with autism (supervisors: Dr Sarah Garfinkel, Prof Hugo Critchley)