High resolution imaging of multimodal nanoparticles for treatment of brain cancers

(4 year MRes + PhD studentship)

This project is on offer in the Imperial College EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Neurotechnology for Life and Health. See https://www.findaphd.com/search/PhDDetails.aspx?CAID=2386&LID=112 for all projects available.

Supervisors: Alexandra Porter (Materials), Matthew Williams (Surgery & Cancer), Mary Ryan (Materials)

This PhD aims to develop strategies to treat early and metastatic brain cancer while avoiding unwanted side effects on healthy tissue. The student will develop unique nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems to specifically target and treat brain cancer. We will combine cellular models using cancer and healthy cells to test the effectiveness of the drugs to kill tumour cells, yet spare healthy cells. To accomplish this objective, Imperial will synthesize nano-sized (one thousandth the width of a human hair) “smart” particles that have been surface-modified with chemicals that specifically identify, penetrate and kill cancer cells but do not markedly affect normal cells. Bioassays will complement the tools used by the supervisors, including advanced high resolution imaging to study transformation and translocation, cellular bioreactivity and integrity.

The CDT programme is not a standard PhD programme. Throughout the 4 years, there is considerable emphasis upon multidisciplinary and transferable skills, through centre activities beyond the individual research project. The programme cannot be taken without the first (MRes Neurotechnology) year, as it is an integral part of the overall programme.

Applicants should have (or be expecting) a first or upper second class degree (or non-UK equivalent) in an engineering or physical science subject. Students with a biological and medical sciences background may be considered, but candidates must have sufficient quantitative skills to thrive in the programme. You should be looking for a challenging, multi-disciplinary PhD at the interface of neuroscience and engineering.

To apply online, visit www.imperial.ac.uk/neurotechnology/cdt/apply/

If you have questions or would like further information about the project, we encourage you to contact the supervisors directly before making your formal application.