Untangling Extracellular Matrix Regulated Tumour Immunity Queen Mary University of London in United Kingdom

This funded PhD project at Queen Mary University of London, based at the Barts Cancer Institute, offers an exciting opportunity to advance cancer immunotherapy research. Supported by Cancer Research UK, the position will commence in September 2026 and provides funding for four years, including a tax-free annual stipend of £23,000, tuition fees at the Home rate, and project consumables. Overseas applicants are welcome but must cover the difference in tuition fees.

The research aims to address a critical challenge in cancer treatment: the failure of immunotherapy for most patients with solid tumours. The supervisor's team is pioneering precision therapies that remodel the tumour extracellular matrix (ECM) to convert immune-excluded tumours into therapy-responsive ones. Their ECM-editing interventions are based on discoveries that specific ECM components and their post-translational glycosylations (PTGs) control immune cell positioning and function within tumours. By precisely modifying ECM structure, these therapies seek to overcome immune exclusion and sensitize tumours to immune-mediated destruction, offering new hope for cancers resistant to current immunotherapy.

As a PhD student, you will help close a major research gap by developing in vitro models that enable tumour ECM research. The project involves creating an in vitro ECM platform for testing the immune function of ECM targets. This multidisciplinary work integrates materials science, immunology, and matrix biology. Planned techniques include the creation of a 3D tumour on a chip, spatial and bulk omics methodologies, gene editing, and real-time cell function and phenotype assays.

Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as biology, medical science, materials science, or a related discipline. Experience in cell biology, immunology, or materials science is desirable. The project is ideal for candidates interested in cancer biology, immunology, and translational research.

The application deadline is March 23, 2026. To apply, submit your application online via the Queen Mary University of London portal, including your CV, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. For further information, refer to the project link or contact the supervisor.