The Singular Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS) at the University of Santiago de Compostela offers six fully funded PhD positions, supported by the 'María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence' accreditation (CEX2024-001463-M).

Research at CiMUS is organised into two complementary programmes. The Molecular Mechanisms Programme investigates the biological basis of obesity and metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration and cancer, while the Integrative Translational Programme develops innovative therapies and technologies, accelerating the path from discovery to clinical application.

CiMUS fosters close interaction between basic and clinical researchers within well-established research groups. Advanced core facilities and active collaborations with universities, hospitals and biotechnology companies, provide doctoral researchers with a rigorous scientific environment and direct exposure to translational research.

The PhD programme delivers structured training aligned with the European Commission’s Principles for Innovative Doctoral Training. Fellows benefit from close supervision, interdisciplinary collaboration and opportunities for international engagement, strengthening both scientific excellence and long-term career development.

WHAT WE OFFER:
• Four-year predoctoral contract, including full Social Security coverage.
• 7,000 € to support full coverage of doctoral tuition fees for the entire duration of the contract and national or international research stays.
• Access to a mentoring and career development program.
• Participation in seminars, workshops, and networking activities with leading international scientists.

RESEARCH PROJECTS LIST:
• Design and characterization of siRNA/mRNA-loaded nanoparticles for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
• RNA modifications in transposable elements during early cell fate transitions and cancer.
• Role of extracellular SUMO in virus infection, immune activation, and cancer progression.
• Circadian regulation of radiotherapy response in adult and pediatric gliomas.
• Genetic and chemical partial reprogramming of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
• Role of estrogen in shaping brain neuromodulator circuits.
• Extracellular vesicles as mediators of astrocyte–neuron communication in Parkinson’s disease.
• Peripheral Control of Metabolic Organ Homeostasis.
• Inflammatory reprogramming of the Blood–Brain Barrier as an early driver of cancer-associated cachexia.

All the information about our projects, elegibility and application details can be found in our webpage https://cimus.usc.gal/es/training/mdm-phd-programme.