[UK] Phd Projects - University of London
Targeting the unfolded protein response as a novel therapeutic approach in haematological malignancies.
We are looking for a graduate with a clear interest in Cancer Pharmacology or Molecular and Cell Biology, with at least an upper second class honours degree or a lower second class honours degree with a Masters, for this project within the Institute of Cancer at Charterhouse Square, London
To be able to survive in stressful physiological environments, such as hypoxia or increased protein production, cancer cells hijack a number of stress response pathways. One of these, involving the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and termed the unfolded protein response (UPR), has been known for some time but its importance in malignant disease has only recently emerged. This response is mediated by several key proteins that regulate the activity of a number of transcription factors that alter the expression of either pro-survival or pro-apoptotic genes. Whether stress stimuli result in cell survival or apoptosis depends on both the level of stress induced and the relative activation of these different ER response pathways.
Several novel agents under development for the treatment of haematological cancers exert at least part of their activity by promoting ER stress. The underlying level of ER stress may also affect the response of the cancer cell to established chemotherapeutic agents, particularly in tumour types with increased protein production such as myelomas and myeloid leukaemias.
The specific aims of this PhD project are to investigate the importance of the UPR in mediating the activity of both novel and established cytotoxic agents and to study the effect of modulating this response, using both RNAi and specific small molecule approaches.
For an informal discussion, please contact the lead project supervisor:
Name: Dr Simon Joel Email: s.p.joel@qmul.ac.uk
To apply, please download the School of Medicine & Dentistry
application form from our website: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply/index.html
and return to Miss Helena Tkalez at the Graduate School Office - email: h.tkalez@qmul.ac.uk Please note that we accept postal and electronic applications.
Referees may email references directly to h.tkalez@qmul.ac.uk
This studentship is funded by the Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Charitable Foundation and comes with a tax free stipend of £14,709 per annum. Home/EU tuition fees will be paid by the Charitable Foundation. Non EU applicants will have to fund the difference between home and overseas tuition fees themselves, approximately £8000.00 per annum for a minimum of three years.
