Project title: Mechanism and evolution of divergent molecular motors in trypanosome parasites.Dr Aakash G. Mukhopadhyay

Applications are invited for a fully funded PhD studentship starting January 2027 in the laboratory of Dr Aakash Mukhopadhyay.

Eukaryotic flagella (aka cilia) are remarkable cellular organelles that enable cells to move, sense their environment, and communicate with surrounding tissues. In humans, defects in these structures cause a wide range of diseases, including retinal degeneration, developmental disorders and obesity. Many microbial pathogens also rely on flagella for survival, transmission and host adaptation.

Among the most fascinating examples are the trypanosomatid parasites, a group that includes the causative agents of leishmaniasis and sleeping sickness. These parasites possess a specialised flagellum that is essential for motility, environmental sensing and successful progression through multiple hosts including humans.

This project will investigate the mechanism of the trypanosome intraflagellar transport (IFT) motors and determine how their architecture supports flagellum assembly and function. You will apply multi-disciplinary approaches from cell biology, parasite genetics,



biochemistry and structural biology to uncover fundamental principles governing the function and evolution of these molecular motors.

The project will be carried out in the newly established Mukhopadhyay Laboratory, which studies the mechanisms of eukaryotic cilia and flagella. The PI has an established track record in IFT, motors and flagellum function.

The project offers an exciting opportunity to address fundamental questions in cell biology while gaining insight into the biology of medically important parasites. The findings are expected to reveal current principles of molecular motor evolution, with broad relevance to both pathogen biology and ciliary/flagellar function across eukaryotes.

Closing Date is 31 July 2026

The studentships are available to students who qualify for UK HOME FEES ONLY

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK upper 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject.

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.

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📌 PhD Studentship: Mechanism and evolution of divergent molecular motors in trypanosome parasites (Ontario)
🏢 Emerging Scholars Council
📍 Ontario