Overcoming drug resistance in cancer using nano-encapsulated combination therapies

Despite advances in cancer treatment, the development of drug resistance remains a major issue affecting long term patient survival. In parallel, new therapeutic molecules extracted from plants seem attractive due to their ability to act in synergy with conventional chemotherapy and may offer a pathway to restoring sensitivity in resistant cells.

However, to be effective such combinatory therapies would need to be delivered specifically to tumour cells at the same time. This can be achieved using nanomedicines, which, as an added bonus, have also be shown to overcome common mechanisms of drug resistance.

This project provides the opportunity to study how therapeutic combinations and nanomedicines can be exploited to prevent or overcome drug resistance, with a particular focus on lung and gastro-intestinal cancers. This, in turn, will allow for a more informed approach to the design of new drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.

This project should be particularly appealing to students interested in nanotechnology, nanomedicine, nutraceuticals, cancer biology/pharmacology and drug formulation. The project will exploit a varied range of techniques to evaluate the therapeutic effect of nanomedicines.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Marie-Christine Jones. Email: [Email Address Removed]

To be considered for the studentship, please send the following documents to [Email Address Removed]:
• A detailed CV;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.