PhD Studentship: Dissecting the Molecular Architecture and Function of LMTK3 as a Therapeutic Target

Lemur Taul Kinase 3 (LMTK3) has emerged as a significant therapeutic target in a range of cancers, most notably breast cancer. Previous research from the laboratory of Professor Georgios Giamas was pivotal in identifying LMTK3's oncogenic roles, including its contribution to chemo- and endocrine resistance, and its function as a regulator of the tumour microenvironment. His group successfully solved the crystal structure of the LMTK3 kinase domain and developed the first-in-class small-molecule inhibitor, C28. Despite these significant advances, a comprehensive understanding of the full-length LMTK3 protein, including the interplay between its domains and its diverse, non-canonical functions, remains elusive. This project will build directly upon Professor Giamas's findings to dissect the molecular mechanisms underpinning LMTK3's multifaceted role in cancer biology. By employing a multidisciplinary approach combining structural biology, biochemistry, and cell biology, this research aims to provide novel insights into LMTK3 regulation and function, paving the way for the development of more effective and targeted anti-cancer therapies. The project will be jointly supervised by Professor Georgios Giamas, expert in LMTK3 and cancer biology, and Professor Erika Mancini, a structural biologist and Director of the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre.

Informal enquiries about the project are welcome and can be made to:

Informal enquiries about the project can be made to Georgios Giamas g.giamas@sussex.ac.uk  and Erika Mancini Erika.mancini@sussex.ac.uk

How to apply:

Please submit a formal application using the online admissions portal attaching a CV, degree transcripts and certificates, and two academic referees. A research proposal is not required. Instead, please upload a personal statement describing your subject areas of interest, skills and previous experience, motivation for Doctoral Research, future goals, and why you are applying to this project.

On the application system select Programme of Study – PhD Biochemistry. Please select ‘funding obtained’ and state the supervisor’s name where required. Applicants with overseas fee status need to provide evidence showing how they will fund the difference between Home and International tuition fees (approx. £18k per year).

Candidates should have (or expect) a minimum BSc 2:1. MSc degree is advantageous. Qualification should be in Biochemistry, Biomedicine, Biology or related subject area. You may also be considered for the position if you have other professional qualifications or experience of equivalent standing.

Candidates for whom English is not their first language will require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall or equivalent proficiency - English language requirements

Applications are particularly welcomed from candidates with protected characteristics – e.g., from Black and other ethnic minorities – who are under-represented in postgraduate research at our institution.

For enquiries about the application process, please email Emma Chorley: lifesci-rec@sussex.ac.uk

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