PhD Studentship: Dissecting the dual role of guanylate binding proteins in glioblastoma tumour cells and microenvironment

 DoS: Dr Ming Li (ming.li-18l@plymouth.ac.uk)

2^nd Supervisor: Dr Mahmoud Labib (mahmoud.labib@plymouth.ac.uk)

3^rd Supervisor: Dr Ellie Edlmann (ellie.edlmann@plymouth.ac.uk)

Applications are invited for a three-year PhD studentship.

The studentship will start on 1^st October 2025.

Project Description

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and treatment-resistant form of brain cancer, with a median survival of less than 15 months despite standard-of-care interventions such as surgery, radiotherapy, and temozolomide (TMZ). Recurrence is nearly universal, driven by intrinsic tumour resistance and a profoundly immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME). There is a critical need for novel therapeutic strategies that target both tumour-intrinsic mechanisms and immune evasion.

Our recent research has identified guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs)—a family of interferon-inducible GTPases—as key regulators of GBM progression and immune suppression. We have shown that GBPs are overexpressed in GBM and associated with poor prognosis. Notably, GBPs also contribute to TMZ resistance. GBPs are also enriched in tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), where they help maintain an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Genetic deletion of GBPs in either GBM cells or TAMs reduces tumour growth and extends survival in preclinical models, highlighting their potential as dual-function therapeutic targets

This project will:

• Investigate the role of GBPs in tumour growth and drug resistance using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene inactivation;
• Elucidate the impact of GBPs on the immune microenvironment using GBP knockout mouse models and single-cell RNA sequencing to analyse TAM polarisation and T cell dynamics.

This research has the potential to transform GBM treatment by identifying novel therapeutic targets that simultaneously suppress tumour growth and modulate the immune response. By sensitising tumours to immunotherapy, it could pave the way for more effective combination treatments in a cancer type with currently limited options.

Eligibility

Applicants should have a first or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as cell biology, biomedical sciences, immunology, molecular biology, or a related field. A masters degree (MSc or MRes) in a relevant subject is desirable but not essential.

Essential criteria:

• background in cell biology, immunology, or molecular biology
• experience with laboratory-based research (e.g., cell culturing, molecular techniques, bioinformatics, flow cytometry)
• ability to work independently and as part of a research team
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• excellent written and verbal communication skills.

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum English requirements for the programme, IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component test area) or equivalent.

The studentship is supported for 3 years and includes full Home tuition fees plus a stipend of £18,655 per annum 2024/25 rate (2025/26 rate TBC).  The studentship will only fully fund those applicants who are eligible for Home fees with relevant qualifications.  Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates.

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact:

Dr. Ming Li (ming.li-18@plymouth.ac.uk).

To apply for this position please click on the Apply button above.

For more information on the admissions process generally, please visit our How to Apply for a Research Degree webpage or contact the Doctoral College. 

Applications will not be considered if information is missing.

The closing date for applications on 30 June, 2025.

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