Details
- Close date
- Friday, 21 December 2018
- Academic background
- Sciences, Health Sciences
- Host campus
- Christchurch
- Qualification
- PhD
- Department
- Pathology and Biomedical Science (Christchurch)
- Supervisors
- Associate Professor Gabi Dachs, Dr Aamir Raja
Overview
Breast cancer treatment varies depending on the specific features of the tumour. Treatment failure is often due to unrecognised changes in these characteristic features of the cancer. A new form of imaging, MARS molecular CT, offers an opportunity to detect this variability non-invasively. We aim to combine advanced biochemistry, genetic manipulations and advanced imaging technology to determine this variation. Specifically, we will construct targeted MARS-visible nanoparticles, create gene-modified breast cancer cell lines and test them as in vivo models, and measure the uptake of the drug Herceptin into breast cancer tumours.
We are looking for a bright, enthusiastic student with A/A+ average grade to undertake their PhD studies in this multidisciplinary field. The ideal candidate would have a strong background in cell biology and biochemistry, with an interest in gene therapy and in vivo models. A basic understanding of bioengineering and biophysics are a bonus. The study will be carried out as a collaboration between the Mackenzie Cancer Research Group, a translational cancer research group with clinical links to Christchurch hospital, and the Centre for Bioengineering, a major theme is the development of 3D spectral x-ray imaging.