Opportunities

New PhD opportunity available within School of Natural Sciences as part of the Rolfe Lab in Discipline of Zoology: The Rolfe Lab

PhD Studentship: Exploring sex-based differences in ligament development and maturation: Do they contribute to tissue vulnerability?

Applications are invited for those interested in doctoral research to investigate sex-based differences in ligament development and maturation and to determine their contributions to tissue vulnerability.

This research addresses a critical gap in musculoskeletal biology and aims to explain variations in injury susceptibility between sexes. This studentship is supported by the Anatomical Society of the UK and Ireland to be based on a full-time basis in the Zoology Discipline, School of Natural Sciences in Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin under the supervision of Dr. Rebecca Rolfe (Lead supervisor) and Prof. Paula Murphy (Co-supervisor).

Candidate Qualifications
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree (minimum upper second-class honours (II.1) grade or equivalent) in biomedical or biological sciences, anatomical sciences, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical engineering, or a closely related discipline. 

Duration of funding: 3 years FTE (University fees at EU rate and Stipend for 3 years)
The Anatomical Society PhD Studentship funded by the Anatomical Society of the UK and Ireland, includes tuition fees at the ‘EU student rate’ and an annual tax-free maintenance allowance (stipend), euro equivalent of £20,780* per annum for 3 years. (*Effective rate as of 01.10.25, Note these amounts are reviewed annually, so may change for academic year beginning 01.10.26.)

How to Apply
Full applications should be submitted in a single PDF document with ‘Anatomical Society PhD’ in 
the email subject line and should include the material below:
1. Cover letter (one page) addressing your motivation and how your qualifications, experience, and background would make you a suitable candidate.
2. Curriculum vitae to include the names and contact details of 2 referees (including email addresses)
Viable applicants will be shortlisted for interview soon thereafter. 

Email applications and informal enquiries to: Dr Rebecca Rolfe (rebecca.rolfe@tcd.ie)

Deadline for applications: 27th March 2026

For full details see: Rolfe Lab PhD Opportunity 2026