Developing T cell-targeted treatments for NF2-schwannomatosis vestibular schwannoma tumours

The rare disease NF2 schwannomatosis (NF2-SWN) is characterised by the development of various different types of tumours within the skull. In particular, the development of vestibular schwannoma (VS) tumours, which form on the vestibulocochlear nerve, are pathognomonic for the NF2-SWN syndrome. These tumours cause substantial suffering, limiting the quality of life of patients.

We have recently identified that human NF2-SWN VS tumours contain a substantial population of T cells, and that these T cells appear to have specific compartmentalisation patterns in distinct regions of the tumour, which may affect their capacity to localise with and effectively kill tumour cells. As such, in this project the student will complement analyses of high dimensional imaging and available single cell RNA-sequencing datasets of human NF2-SWN tumours, with pre-clinical in vivo investigations in established and novel murine models of NF2-SWN VS to target cells and pathways to enhance anti-tumour T cell responses. The aim is to identify and prioritise new combinatorial immune-based treatments that limit tumour growth, morbidity and mortality and which can move forward for clinical trials for treatment of NF2-SWN.  T cell-based immunotherapy has revolutionised the treatment of many different types of cancer. However, to date, these treatments have not been employed for the treatment of NF2-SWN VS tumours.

Eligibility

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.

How to Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). On the online application form select PhD Immunology.

Your application form must be accompanied by a number of supporting documents by the advertised deadlines. Without all the required documents submitted at the time of application, your application will not be processed and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team fbmh.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/