PhD Studentship: Targeting Guanylate-Binding Proteins to Overcome Therapy Resistance and Immunosuppression in Glioblastoma

DoS: Dr Ming Li (ming.li-18l@plymouth.ac.uk, tel.: 07570629005)

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 Jan, 2026.

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 identifies guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs), a family of interferon-inducible GTPases, as critical regulators of glioblastoma (GBM) progression and immune suppression. We found that GBPs are overexpressed in GBM, correlating with poor prognosis and contributing to temozolomide (TMZ) resistance. Additionally, GBPs promote an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Genetic deletion of GBPs in GBM cells or the tumor microenvironment reduces tumor growth and extends survival in preclinical models, underscoring their potential as dual-function therapeutic targets. To address this, we aim to develop GBP-targeted therapies using AAV-CRISPR/Cas9 for genetic targeting and/or PROTAC-mediated GBP protein degradation, evaluating their efficacy in combination with TMZ and anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitors in preclinical GBM models.

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 master 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 £19,215 per annum 2025/26 rate.  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.

There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.

NB: The studentship is supported for three years of the four-year registration period. The fourth year is a self-funded ‘writing-up’ year.

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.

Please also see here for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.

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 31^st August 2025.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview shortly after the deadline.

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