Dr. Andrew Firth

Professor

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Biography

Professor Andrew E. Firth specializes in RNA virus gene expression and comparative genomics, focusing on the non-canonical translation mechanisms utilized by RNA viruses. His research delves into the discovery and characterization of novel viruses, with particular attention to ribosome profiling and RNA structure function. His work is motivated by comparative genomic analyses that seek to identify overlooked functional elements within virus genomes. Recent investigations include the identification of novel genes in astroviruses and enteroviruses, as well as studies on SARS-CoV-2 that highlight protein-stimulated ribosomal frameshifting and transcriptional slippage in gene expression in various viruses. Professor Firth is also engaged in the analysis of Ribo-seq and RNA-seq data, enhancing the understanding of RNA viruses' unique gene expression strategies.

Research Interests

Experience

Senior Research Fellow

2020-01-01 — Present

Wellcome Trust • Cambridge, UK

Leading research in Virus Bioinformatics and overseeing the research activities at the Division of Virology.

Requirements for University of Cambridge

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.7
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:25
Reading
Required:25
Writing
Required:25
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:110
Prerequisites
UK Bachelor's Degree with good Upper Second Class Honours or international equivalent Background in international relations, politics, law, economics, security or history is a definite asset
Application Checklist
  • Two academic references
  • Official transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Personal statement (approx 500 words)
  • Research proposal (1-2 pages/500 words)
  • Application fee (£50)
Specialization Notes

Standard postgraduate requirements for Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) and related humanities departments.