With the emerging importance of Cathepsin proteases during normal development, inflammation and disease, a number of Cathepsin proteases have also been recognized as being good therapeutic targets, particularly during cancer progression (Pubmed ID: 31212661, 31213124, 31381961). When taken with the diverse array of general strategies that are being explored to target oncogenic proteins, the genetic context in which these approaches are being taken is taking on greater importance, as we strive towards personalized medicine through studies that involve the genetic stratification of patients (33266503, 33233599). The following project utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach to addressing aspects of this, through defining (with greater clarity), how the genetics of certain cancers relate to the ability of cells to be predispose to death (by apoptosis) or tumor progression (through cellular differentiation). By building on studies published from our group, the project will also characterize novel anti-cancer therapeutics, which have high potential medicinal value, and which act through interfering with the underlying molecular signaling cascades (33925117, 33807987). While initially work will progress through developing cell line models, the findings will be tested in primary cell or patient samples and which have very high publication potential.
This project will be undertaken in the lab of Dr. Surinder Soond in Clinical Molecular Oncology and will benefit from expertise of other labs within the Immunology Group.
Supervisors: Dr Surinder Soond and Prof Paul A. Townsend
More information on research in the School of Biosciences and Medicine.
Entry requirements
This would be suited to a student who is interested in developing their skills Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell biology, Oncology and Pharmacology. The project offers a well-balanced approach to developing all of these areas for a student with a 2.1 BSc (minimum) or an MSc, in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/BMed etc/ or applied life science from the UK (or equivalent qualification from international Institutions)
English language requirements: An IELTS Academic of 6.5 or above with 6.0 in each individual category (or equivalent qualification from other agencies).
How to apply
Applications should be submitted via the online application portal for Biosciences and Medicine PhDs. Please state clearly the project that you are applying for and your supervisor.
We encourage informal enquiries to be sent to Prof Paul Townsend ([Email Address Removed]) and/or Dr Surinder Soond ([Email Address Removed]).