Application Guide

How to Apply for PhD Studentship: High-Throughput Optimisation of Non-Viral Delivery Systems for Mucosal mRNA Vaccines Against Pathogenic Bacteria

at University College London (UCL)

🏢 About University College London (UCL)

University College London (UCL) is a world-leading multidisciplinary university consistently ranked among the top 10 globally, with the London Centre for Nanotechnology representing a unique collaboration between UCL and Imperial College London. UCL's research environment is particularly distinguished by its translational focus, with strong industry partnerships and a track record of moving discoveries from lab to clinic, especially in vaccine development and antimicrobial resistance.

About This Role

This PhD studentship involves developing polymer-based nanoparticles for mucosal mRNA vaccine delivery against pathogenic bacteria, specifically focusing on high-throughput optimization using automated synthesis platforms. The role is impactful because it addresses the critical gap in preventing infections at mucosal entry points rather than just treating severe disease, directly contributing to the fight against antimicrobial resistance through next-generation vaccine technology.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve designing and executing high-throughput polymer synthesis experiments using automated platforms, followed by characterization of nanoparticle properties using techniques like dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy. This would be interspersed with data analysis to identify promising formulations, literature review on mucosal immunology, and regular meetings with the interdisciplinary supervisory team to discuss experimental progress and next steps.

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🎯 Who University College London (UCL) Is Looking For

  • Strong background in polymer chemistry, nanomaterials, or pharmaceutical formulation with hands-on lab experience in nanoparticle synthesis and characterization
  • Experience with or strong interest in high-throughput screening methodologies and automation platforms for materials optimization
  • Understanding of mucosal immunology, vaccine delivery mechanisms, or antimicrobial resistance challenges
  • Programming skills (Python, R, or MATLAB) for data analysis from high-throughput experiments would be highly advantageous

📝 Tips for Applying to University College London (UCL)

1

Explicitly connect your previous research experience to either polymer nanoparticle synthesis OR mucosal delivery systems - don't just list general lab skills

2

Demonstrate specific knowledge of Dr. Julia Rho's research group by referencing 1-2 of their recent publications on non-viral delivery systems

3

Highlight any experience with automation platforms (liquid handlers, robotic systems) or high-throughput methodologies, even if from different fields

4

Address both the scientific challenge (mucosal mRNA delivery) and the societal impact (reducing antimicrobial resistance) in your personal statement

5

If you have international student status, proactively address how your background brings unique perspectives to UK-based AMR research

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific interest in the intersection of nanotechnology, mucosal immunology, and high-throughput optimization approaches', "How your technical skills align with the project's methodology (polymer synthesis, nanoparticle characterization, automation)", 'Your understanding of the translational potential - how this research could move from lab to clinical application', "Why UCL's collaborative environment at the London Centre for Nanotechnology specifically appeals to you"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Recent publications from Dr. Julia Rho's research group, particularly those related to non-viral delivery systems
  • → UCL's cross-disciplinary initiatives in antimicrobial resistance and the specific CDT-AMR program structure
  • → The London Centre for Nanotechnology's specific facilities and equipment available for high-throughput screening
  • → UCL's industry partnerships in vaccine development and how PhD projects typically interface with these collaborations

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your experience with polymer synthesis techniques and characterization methods (DLS, TEM, zeta potential)
2 How you would design a high-throughput screening experiment for optimizing nanoparticle formulations
3 Your understanding of challenges specific to mucosal vaccine delivery versus systemic delivery
4 Knowledge of current mRNA vaccine technologies and their limitations for mucosal applications
5 How this project fits within the broader context of antimicrobial resistance strategies
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic PhD application without tailoring it to this specific project's focus on mucosal delivery and high-throughput optimization
  • Failing to demonstrate understanding of the difference between this project (preventing infection at mucosal sites) versus traditional vaccine approaches (preventing severe disease)
  • Overlooking the interdisciplinary nature by focusing only on one aspect (e.g., only polymer chemistry without considering immunological applications)

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

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Good luck with your application to University College London (UCL)!

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