PhD Studentship
University of Hull -School of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences
Biomimetic model to study the development of optimal cancer immune therapies
To celebrate the University's research successes we are offering a PhD scholarship and exciting research-training opportunity for a highly-motivated, bright and enthusiastic graduate in the following project.
Closing Date: 15 March 2013
Proposed Start date: 30 September 2013
Informal enquiries:
Dr E Rosca, e.rosca@hull.ac.uk
Dr J Greenman, j.greenman@hull.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0)1482 465409
How to apply
Visit our website at the Apply button below.
Project outline
The objective of this project is to develop a biologically validated model which can be used to investigate and optimize cancer immune therapies. The immune system has a very specific and efficacious mechanism to distinguish between self and non-self cells, thus it possesses the ability to eradicate tumour cells. However, this is an intricate process which involves multiple players (i.e., different immune cells, cytokines and cellular receptors) and can be rendered inefficient by imbalances amongst them. Understanding the dynamics of the parameters responsible for keeping this complex system working efficiently will allow us to develop effective therapeutic schemes.
The first aim of this project will be to develop a mathematical model to study the interaction between the immune system and the tumour micro-environment. This will be accomplished by using transport phenomena principles to generate differential equations to model the system as a continuously stirred reactor. This will be achieved using the Matlab software platform. Using this set up we will systematically examine the parameter space and find the optimal levels of each component to yield an ideal therapeutic effect.
Secondly, this project will biologically validate the model through in vitro experimentation using a microfluidics system. Some parameters of the model will be actual cells (such as T cells) while others will be biomimetic models (i.e., liposomes modelling tumour cells). The mathematical predictions will give a starting point for the biological simulations. The final outcome of the project will yield an experimentally validated computational model which can be used to describe the essential parameters to be considered when developing immunotherapies.
Applicants should be highly motivated and have:
- A minimum Upper Second Class honours degree in biomedical sciences from a recognised institution
- Familiarity with Matlab and cell culture techniques would be an advantage
Further details
For UK/EU PhD students the scholarship will include fees at the 'home/EU' student rate and maintenance of £13,726 (in 2013/14) for three years, depending on satisfactory progress.
For non UK/EU students the scholarship will cover the full overseas student tuition fee for full-time study for three years, depending on satisfactory progress, but no living expenses.
PhD students at the University of Hull are required to follow modules for research and transferable skills development and gain a Masters level Certificate, or Diploma, in Research Training, in addition to their research degree.
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