PhD Studentship: Targeting Osteoclast-Tumour interactions to Suppress Osteosarcoma Metastasis

Apply for a full time four-year PhD studentship worth £20,069.25 plus £2000 London weighting allowance per annum. Studentship begins on 6 January 2025, with applications open until 5 November.

For the past 30 years, survival rates in osteosarcoma (OS) patients have remained unchanged, partly due to the lack of knowledge on the mechanisms of metastasis. Preclinical and clinical evidence highlight that OS tumours may reside in the bone environment due to interactions with bone cell populations such as osteoclasts. Disrupting these interactions allows OS to spread to the lungs. In our prior study, we identified 'Migratory Bodies' (MBs) as a valuable laboratory model for studying OS metastasis. Osteoclast factors slow down MBs, but the drug zoledronic acid (used to treat osteoporosis) can counteract this effect, leading to pulmonary spread

This project will use genetic engineering to unravel how OS spreads, with a particular focus on potential drug targets STAT3 and MMP9. Additionally, this project will examine OS metabolism and employ our unique chick model to enhance our understanding of metastasis. This research holds promise for refining OS treatment strategies, incorporating insights into osteoclast interactions, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for patients. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with the research group of the Co-Supervisor (Dr Scott Roberts, Royal Veterinary College, London).

Key information

Project title: Suppress-OS: Targeting Osteoclast-Tumour interactions to Suppress Osteosarcoma Metastasis

Application deadline: 5 November 2024

Interview date: November 2024

Studentship Start: 6 January 2025

Sponsor: Hannah’s Willberry Wonder Pony 

Qualification type: PhD

Location: Hendon, London and Camden, London 

Mode of Study: Full time, four years

Eligibility: UK students 

English Language requirements: IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in all other sub-skills)

Funding amount: £20,069.25 plus £2000 London weighting allowance per annum

Applicant requirements

This studentship is open to UK students only

Essential

  • An undergraduate degree (1st or 2:1) in molecular biology/cell biology (or related discipline) 
  • Experience of undertaking a research project
  • A high level of motivation, with the ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team
  • An academic record of excellence with good writing and communication skills

Desirable

  • An MSc or MRes in molecular biology, tissue engineering or related discipline 
  • A strong background in cancer and/or musculoskeletal biology
  • Experience in molecular biology and/or mammalian cell culture techniques 
  • Authorship on scientific publications

About Middlesex University

The student will be based in the Centre for Investigative and Diagnostic Oncology within the Faculty of Science and Technology at Middlesex University. This department focusses on a range of oncology-associated research including epigenetics, biomaterials, bioengineering, stem cell biology, nanoparticles, immuno-oncology and chemoresistance. 

Contact person 

Dr Helen Roberts: [email protected] 

If you are interested in applying, please provide a CV and Personal Statement to demonstrate why you are interested in this PhD position. Please apply directly to Dr Helen Roberts.