A funded one-year MPhil research project is available to start in October 2026 in Dr An Vanhaesebrouck’s lab within the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge.
This opportunity is ideal for a motivated applicant who wants to tackle a clinically serious and scientifically under-explored condition in dogs, while gaining high-value laboratory and translational research experience in a world-leading environment.
Author: Dr Niaz Chowdhury (LinkedIn)
Designation: Lecturer (Computer Science)
Affiliation: Ulster University, Birmingham, UK
Funding and programme structure
Successful candidates will receive maintenance funding at the current BBSRC veterinary rate of £29,600 per annum for one year.
- Duration: 1 year (full-time), starting October 2026
- Potential extension: possibility of extending to a 2-year MSc route (subject to arrangements and progress)
- Fees: the student will be responsible for paying their own University fees
Note that the University’s MPhil in Veterinary Science is a research-focused programme, assessed through a thesis (no examined coursework).
The research project
Project title
Is Myasthenia Gravis the Hidden Cause of Acquired Megaoesophagus in Dogs?
Acquired idiopathic megaoesophagus is a serious, often devastating condition in dogs. The oesophagus becomes enlarged and loses its ability to move food into the stomach, leading to regurgitation and a high risk of aspiration pneumonia, which can be life-threatening.
While some cases are linked to autoimmune disorders such as myasthenia gravis, many remain unexplained—and there is currently no reliable cure.
What you’ll do
In this project, the student will:
- Analyse muscle tissue from dogs with and without megaoesophagus
- Identify immunological and molecular markers in serum and tissue that could become new treatment targets
- Contribute to developing diagnostic assays for future clinical use
This work sits at the intersection of comparative neuromuscular research and translational medicine, with potential relevance to both veterinary and human health.
Training, skills, and collaboration
Students on this project will build a strong research toolkit, including:
- Molecular biology techniques
- Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Grant writing and scientific communication
You will also benefit from international collaboration with leading institutions, including Oxford, Edinburgh, the Royal Veterinary College, UC Davis, and others—helping you build a valuable academic network early in your research career.
Who should apply?
Applicants should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) at least a strong 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline.
This is especially suitable for candidates who are:
- curious about neurophysiopathology and immune-mediated disease
- keen to work with clinically relevant samples and translational questions
- aiming to progress towards a PhD pathway
Future progression: If the student demonstrates strong interest and aptitude, the lab intends to seek funding for a third-year extension leading to a PhD.
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Contact the supervisor first to discuss fit and project details before submitting an official application.
- Locate the project listing on the department’s postgraduate projects page and click “Apply”.
- When applying (and in any correspondence), quote the reference: PP48236.
- Review the University guidance for applying to the MPhil in Veterinary Science via the postgraduate course directory.
Advertised closing date: 30 January 2026
Equality, diversity and right to work
The University of Cambridge actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University also has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Final note
If you want a research project that combines real clinical impact, cutting-edge immunology and neuromuscular science, and the chance to build a serious network across top institutions, this Cambridge MPhil project is a standout option.
