Dr Joseph Waldron

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Dr Joseph Waldron

School of Life Sciences, University of 海角社区Link opens in a new window

Scientific Background

Research Interests

The overarching theme of the group is to understand how mRNA translation orchestrates the assembly and organisation of the proteome. While we have a good understanding of how translation determines how much protein is produced, we know far less about how the process of protein synthesis itself influences protein fate, including where proteins are made, how they fold and how they assemble into functional complexes. Our research focuses on how the speed of translation (the movement of ribosomes along mRNAs) can be regulated to influence these processes. We combine transcriptome-wide approaches with single-molecule live-cell imaging to measure and visualise these processes inside cells. This is complemented by molecular cell biology and biochemistry techniques, including reporter assays, to quantitatively test emerging hypotheses. Our research has important implications beyond fundamental molecular cell biology, including understanding the role of synonymous mutations in disease and how features of synthetic mRNAs can be optimised for mRNA therapeutics.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, student-centred, collaborative.

Provision of Training

In the first instance you will receive technical hands on training from myself and other senior group members. I will also encourage you to seek external training on an ad hoc basis. Over time I will encourage you to develop your own independence and guide you to lead the project by the end of your studentship. I will also support you to develop additional skills, tailored to your desired career trajectory, including writing (manuscripts, review articles and annual reports), critical thinking (journal clubs), presenting (lab meetings and conferences), communication (collaborations and outreach activities), networking (conference attendance) and leadership (opportunities for supervising less senior students).

Progression Monitoring and Management

I will expect you to take ownership of your progression, but to seek help (from me or other senior group members) when needed. We will also have regular one-to-one meetings to keep informed and provide support where needed.

Communication

My door is always open for help and support when needed. Communication by email also provides more formal support as and when needed and I will generally aim to reply to emails on the same working day where possible. The group will also have a Teams and WhatsApp chat to help with general lab issues and to encourage good communication and socialising.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per week. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Work Patterns

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings) I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week's notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5,000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Primary supervisor for:

Project Title

See the PhD Opportunities section to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.

Please Note: The main page lists projects via BBSRC Research Theme(s) quoted and then relevant Topic(s).

Project Title

Secondary Supervisor(s):

University of Registration:

BBSRC Research Themes:

Sustainable Agriculture and Food (Animal Health and Welfare, Microbial Food Safety, Plant and Crop Science)
Renewable Resources and Clean Growth (Bio-energy, Industrial Biotechnology)
Understanding the Rules of Life (Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Plant Science, Soil Science, Stem Cells, Structural Biology, Systems Biology)
Integrated Understanding of Health (Ageing, Diet and Health, Pharmaceuticals, Regenerative Biology)

Project Outline

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CASE Project Title

See the Industrial Collaboration PhD Studentships page to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.

CASE: Project Title

University of Registration:

Non-academic partner:

Secondary Supervisor(s):

Project Outline

Application

Deadline: 26 November 2026.

To apply for a CASE studentship, please check your eligibility and complete the MIBTP application process.

Please ensure that you:

Apply directly to University
Clearly state you are applying for a CASE project and stipulate the project title
Please also complete the online ED&I formLink opens in a new window

Co-supervisor on a project / projects with supervisor name + link.