Understanding the cardiotoxic effects of anti-cancer therapies; a multidisciplinary approach

There are >18 million new cancer patients worldwide every year, of which >2 million are women with breast cancer. With targeted and newer therapies, survival rates of breast and other cancers are increasing. However, anti-cancer therapies, including those for breast cancer, can be toxic. They can affect the heart, potentially causing heart failure. This creates an additional mental health burden for patients.  As survival rates increase, quality of life becomes increasingly important and it is now essential to increase our understanding of how and why anti-cancer drugs have these cardiotoxic effects.

We are a multi-disciplinary consortium of biomedical scientists, biomedical engineers, and researchers in mental health, working with clinicians in oncology and cardiology. Our biomedical expertise focuses on intracellular signalling and gene expression, spanning the skillset from basic protein biochemistry, through in vitro systems to in vivo clinical models. Our engineers apply statistical methodologies, AI and machine learning to develop novel ways to detect and diagnose cardiotoxicities in patients. We also link to the BRiC (Building Resilience in Breast Cancer) Centre (https://briccentre.co.uk) to understand the mental health needs of patients. 

Our aims are to understand the mechanisms that underly the cardiotoxic effects of anti-cancer therapies, to develop systems for early identification of and predisposition for cardiotoxicity, and to find ways to alleviate associated anxiety and depression. We seek individuals who share our vision and wish to undertake research in these areas. Applicants keen to work across disciplines are particularly welcome. The project will specifically benefit individuals excited by the prospect of working with an interdisciplinary team with a focus on improving patient welfare. 

School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading:

University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, 30-minutes from central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport. 

The School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling global challenges to society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we occupied a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching, housing the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces.

In the School of Biological Sciences, you will join a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise exciting outreach and public engagement activities.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in transferable skills to support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills.

The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically.

Eligibility:

Applicants should have a good degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in a relevant field. For biomedical sciences, training in biochemistry, biomedical sciences or a related field is required. For biomedical engineering, training is required in computer science, engineering or related analytic field. Good understanding of modern AI, and statistical analysis is expected, with experience in programming languages. Individuals working in multi-disciplinary projects usually display excellent problem-solving and communication skills, and can work independently as well as collaboratively. 

Applicants will need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with this. With a commitment to improving diversity in science and engineering, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Biomedical Sciences or Biomedical Engineering at http://www.reading.ac.uk/pgapply.

Further information:

http://www.reading.ac.uk/biologicalsciences/SchoolofBiologicalSciences/PhD/sbs-phd.aspx

Enquiries:

Prof. Philip Dash ([Email Address Removed]), Biomedical Sciences (cancer).

Prof. William Holderbaum ([Email Address Removed]), Biomedical Engineering.

Prof. Slawomir Nasuto ([Email Address Removed]), Biomedical Engineering.

Prof. Nazanin Derakhshan, ([Email Address Removed]), Psychology.