Students

What is your educational background?

I am currently in my final year of a CRUK-funded PhD at the University of Birmingham studying new therapeutic options in the management of virally driven T-cell lymphomas. My background is as a clinician, and I have taken time out of my final year of training as a haematologist to complete this PhD. My undergraduate training was at the University of Manchester, graduating in 2011 and at the same time completing an intercalated Master of Research.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

I chose to study at Birmingham as I was excited by the research that was being done and the opportunity to complete a project as part of a productive group.  

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

The CRUK program has given me the freedom to come out of clinical training and has also given me additional skills to progress my research.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

I would advise anyone looking to do a PhD to find a project they are passionate about as part of a supportive group. It is easier to both get funding and then complete the project if you have a true passion for what you are doing. 

What is your educational background?

I studied Medicine at the University of Oxford including an intercalated BA in Immunology. I then joined the Academic Foundation Program followed by an Academic Clinical Fellowship (Haematology) within the West Midlands before going out of program to join the Birmingham Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Clinical Academic Training Program in my ST4 year.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham (UoB) has internationally recognised expertise in my scientific field of interest (cancer metabolism) alongside an established academic focus on biological mass spectrometry - a technique I use daily for my research. UoB has excellent links with the local NHS trust including its flagship hospital – the Queen Elizabeth – which is one of the largest centres for the treatment of haematological malignancies in the UK. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

I was fortunate to be funded by CRUK during my Academic Clinical Fellowship through a Pre-Doctoral Bursary. This played a key role in generating the experimental data that formed the scientific foundation of my PhD proposal. The positive interaction and thoughtful feedback throughout that application process made a subsequent CRUK-funded PhD my first-choice program. Birmingham’s CRUK Clinical Academic Training Program also made this application more personal and dovetailed effectively into the local Integrated Academic Training Program. Finally, it was important to me that the program I joined had a drive to create long-term Physician Scientists and not simply PhD graduates. I believe that under Professor Middleton’s leadership that is the case here in Birmingham.

What is your research focused on?

My research looks at how the environmental availability of nutrients and oxygen affects metabolism in cancer cells utilising a combination of molecular biology, metabolomics, lipidomics and fluxomics. My PhD focusses on applying these analytical approaches to identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in adults.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

A UoB CRUK PhD gives a clear inroad to further post-doctoral study within the Integrative Academic Training framework alongside the latter part of speciality training. Training within the program, including both local and national events, prepares you well for larger external grant funding applications that address core questions in cancer biology of translational significance in the future.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

Pick your project, laboratory and supervisor carefully to complement your existing skillset(s). Try to define from the outset what a successful outcome of your PhD means to you and set out a clear sequence of goals to achieve this within the succinct period of time you have.

What are you most proud of? 

Having the opportunity to form a strong foundation in both conceptual and technical aspects of probing metabolism using mass spectrometry and applying this to a wide range of cancer-related projects with highly skilled colleagues locally and internationally.

What is your educational background?

I attended a state school and college, then took a gap year before starting my undergraduate degree.  I studied medicine at the University of Birmingham, and have done most of my medical training in the West Midlands, aside from a year working abroad.  

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

As I was already on a training programme in the West Midlands, the University of Birmingham was an obvious choice for a higher degree. It has well established links with the Liver Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, which is a very attractive asset when conducting research into liver disease/liver cancer. This collaboration has facilitated collection of patient samples which have been invaluable for my research. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

The programme is a fantastic opportunity to work within a cohort of other students and experienced scientists and clinicians nationally. CRUK organise networking events to learn from one another and broaden the research experience.

What is your research focused on?

Liver cancer is one of the major causes of cancer related death worldwide, but has so far only shown a limited response to immunotherapy. This is partly due to the unique immune environment within the liver. My research is exploring this, specifically looking at the specialised liver endothelial cells that control immune cell recruitment from blood into the liver. I am studying differences between endothelium from tumour and normal liver tissue, to understand how they may influence which immune cells infiltrate liver tumours, and whether endothelial cells could be targeted in the future to improve response to immunotherapy. 

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

Taking time out of training to focus on a specific area of interest has undoubtedly enhanced my knowledge and skill set and opened up the exciting world of academia. Learning new techniques in the lab has been rewarding. The CRUK studentship is an asset for any CV, and gives you the crucial foundation needed for an academic career.

In addition, the time away from clinical work (and a break from a perpetual on call rota) gives much needed breathing space to take a step back and consider what you want from your career, where you see yourself working as a consultant, and in what sort of role.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

Talk to people who’ve been through the process, choose a project you’re passionate about (and one that you think would suit you – e.g. lab based/epidemiology/clinical trial) and go for it!

What are you most proud of? 

On starting medical school, I never expected to pursue an academic career path, but thanks to opportunities that have arisen, and sound advice and mentorship, my career choices have evolved and I’m very happy to be doing a PhD.

What is your educational background?

What is your educational background?

My name is Mohammed Nimir; an honorary histopathology registrar and a PhD student at University of Birmingham, funded by the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Clinical Academic Training Programme (CATP). I graduated from the University of Khartoum in Sudan, and went on to complete a MSc in Molecular Medicine in my Alma Mater, followed by a MSc in Cancer Sciences at the University of Glasgow. Thereafter, I started my postgraduate medical training during which I completed a PgCert in Medical Education at the University of Warwick.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham is situated in the second largest city in the UK and is ranked as one of the top 100 universities in the world and the top 15 in the country. In addition, the university boasts 10 Nobel laureates among its alumni and staff, including Sir Paul Nurse (jointly awarded, for his work on the regulation of the cell cycle), a geneticist who headed CRUK in the past, was the former Chief Executive and Director of the Francis Crick Institute and President of the Royal Society. Furthermore, the university houses the institute of translational medicine (ITM) (where my project will be primarily based) which is a place where development and execution of patient-focused research is made frictionless via the institute’s partnership with world-leading hospitals and industry partners.

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

On a professional and academic level, one would not go wrong with aiming to be affiliated with the largest volunteer-funded cancer research organisation in the world, which supports clinical PhD candidates with a generous fellowship package and a wealth of opportunities, including networking and personal and professional development. On a personal level, I have chosen to go for a post funded by CRUK as my aims and plans align perfectly with CRUK’s strategy in tackling cancer, particularly in relation to early detection and diagnosis of malignancies and in relation to development of stronger and more targeted therapies that are gentler on the patient and have less side-effects.

What is your research focused on?

We apply high-dimensional cytometry and high-dimensional spatial tissue analysis to paired blood and tumour samples from a melanoma patient cohort. The ultimate goal is to better predict immune checkpoint therapy response and toxicity. Spatial biology is a rapidly expanding area of research, and this project will increase research capacity in this space. The work benefits from Birmingham’s recent large-scale investment in cutting-edge spatial biology platforms (Lunaphore COMET and Nanostring GeoMX) and facilities. It addresses CRUK’s goal of addressing a relevant clinical question through the investigation of underpinning biological mechanisms.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

CRUK CATP is one of the best, if not the best, funding opportunities in the UK. In addition, CRUK provides annual training days for their trainees, spanning topics focused on developing transferrable skills including leadership, communication, public engagement training, and much more. Furthermore, CRUK fellowships come with a generous £1500 pot for personal and professional development, which can be used as the trainee deems necessary for their development towards becoming an independent researcher.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD? 

The most important thing is to start preparing early on, and I would advise aiming for 12-18 months in advance of when you intend to start your PhD training. Next, the applicant needs to make a decision regarding whether to join a PhD programme with an already developed research project, or apply for funding for their own project which was co-developed by the applicant and their supervisor (with the backing of a University or research institution). I opted to go for the former, as the project piqued my interest, and I was lucky to find immeasurable support from my, then-to-be, supervisors throughout the application process. Regardless of the type of project, the application process is highly competitive, so nothing short of giving it 100% will be enough to land a funded-PhD opportunity. I would highly advise considering the University of Birmingham, especially the CRUK CATP, as it is a world-renowned university which hosts innovative research projects using cutting edge technologies, in addition to providing invaluable support opportunities to us, their students.

What are you most proud of?

It is a privilege to be able to serve patients a doctor, but I always felt that I needed to do more, especially for cancer patients. This came from personally witnessing how devastating cancer can be for individuals, their families, and their community. Hence, I decided to tackle this entity which led me to completing postgraduate degrees culminating in my current appointment as a PhD student. My hope is that my research helps patients and pushes the boundaries of medical knowledge. Therefore, I am proud, and thankful for the grace of Allah, for being able to say that I am affiliated to the University of Birmingham and the CRUK, and I look forward to adding a PhD from this prestigious institution, God-willing, to my arsenal of skills and my CV.

What is your educational background?

I trained at the University of Bristol, where I completed both my medical degree (MBChB) and an intercalated BSc in Cancer Biology and Immunology. After graduation, I continued my training in the West Midlands as a junior doctor. I was fortunate to be able to continue academic training alongside clinical through an Academic Foundation Programme and an Academic Clinical Fellowship. I am currently working as a specialist registrar in Medical Oncology.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham has a very strong reputation for cancer research and produces work of international importance. In addition, the University has exceptional links with the neighbouring Queen Elizabeth Hospital, making it an excellent place to be working and studying as a clinical PhD student. Finally, my experience as an Academic Clinical Fellow has shown me that the University of Birmingham is supportive environment, and I feel confident that I will enjoy spending three years here. 

What is your research focused on?

In my research, I will be looking to identify new treatments that may be helpful in treating specific subgroups of lung cancer patients who currently have few treatment options.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

I intend to pursue a career combining working as a medical oncologist and working in cancer research. A CRUK PhD provides fantastic opportunities and support, helping me to develop the skills and networks needed for a career as an academic medical oncologist.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

Gain some experience working in a lab environment before applying. But otherwise, go for it! 

What are you most proud of?

Working in a field with a potential to make real difference to people’s lives and health. It is a real privilege to work as an oncologist and research is the way we will be able to improve our treatments for patients of the future.

What is your educational background?

I initially studied Medicine at Brighton & Sussex Medical school. Having qualified as a doctor I initially worked in the west midlands and then London, where I did a PGC in medical education at Kings College London and a masters in Surgical Innovation at Imperial college London.  Subsequently I started my surgical training in general surgery in the West midlands in 2019. I have taken time out of my surgical training to undertake a PhD & research into gastric cancer.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

I wanted to study at the University of Birmingham (UoB) for a number of reasons, however UoB’s tight links with the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), a tertiary centre which specialises in upper gastrointestinal surgery was the most significant. Having a close link with QEH, the 4th largest oesophagogastric resectional centre in the UK, has given me excellent access to gastric cancer tissue needed for my research project. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

The CRUK PhD program is well respected and was advocated to me by various colleagues who had successfully performed their research via the fellowship program. The very generous funding amounts also attracted me to applying for the fellowship.

What is your research focused on?

My research focuses on identifying the causes of chemoresistance in gastric cancer (GC), using whole genome CRISPR to identify potential targets for novel therapies. The project will focus on the main subtype of GC, chromosomal instability, which accounts for 50% of cases. We will look use gastric cancer organoids, generated from fresh resection samples performed at QEH, to perform drug screening of traditional chemotherapy agents combined with novel agents such as BH3 mimetics.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

The CRUK PhD will hopefully provide a springboard into a future clinical academic career, allowing me to acquire essential research skills and experience. The very generous CRUK funding will allow me to entirely focus on my project and maximise the output from the research project. 

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

Aim to approach potential supervisors early to allow you to shape your PhD project with them, as well as targeting funding opportunities well in advance. Certainly consider the CRUK PhD program when looking into funding options as it’s an extremely competitive fellowship with very generous funding.  

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of being involved in research tackling gastric cancer, a cancer associated with a very poor prognosis (5 year survival 20%) and therefore an overt area of clinical need. I hope my research can advance our understanding of chemoresistance in gastric cancer, which can translate into tangible improvements in current clinical care.

What is your educational background? 

I graduated from Kasr Al Ainy School of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt. Afterwhich, I commenced my early oncology training in Egypt in addition to undertaking MSc in clinical oncology and nuclear medicine. Being a committed medical oncology trainee affiliated with the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, my unwavering passion lies in the advancement of cancer research and treatment. Currently, I am immersed in a PhD program focusing on cancer and genomics, with a strong desire to make noteworthy contributions to the field by uncovering new genomic markers and identifying potential therapeutic targets.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

The University of Birmingham is a global top-ranked university with a broad selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, many of which are highly ranked in their respective fields. Students have the privilege of participating in world-class research projects and learning from renowned experts in their field.I am also supported by an excellent supervisory team with diverse expertise at the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences (ICGS), where I will conduct my experiments and develop valuable skills. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

Cancer is a devastating disease, and CRUK, one of the world's leading cancer research charities, is at the forefront of the fight against it. By undertaking a CRUK PhD, I would have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families.CRUK PhD students receive holistic training and support, both in their research and professional development. The CRUK PhD program also has a strong alumni network, providing students with valuable support and advice.I am confident that this program would equip me with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful cancer researcher. I am also excited about the opportunity to contribute to CRUK's mission to defeat cancer.

What is your research focused on?

My research is focused on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. I discuss treatment options, benefits and risks with cancer patients daily in my practice. I see at first-hand the severe effects of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy for my patients, but currently we have no tools to identify patients at high risk, nor are there any effective treatments. This translational project addresses both problems. We will use bioinformatics to identify common variants that correlate with more severe chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and re-sequencing to identify potential rare variants in key DNA damage genes. Alongside, we will test potential therapies that could reduce or prevent neuropathic pain. If successful, this project has the potential to make an enormous difference to the quality of life of the cancer patients I treat every day.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

To progress my career as a clinical scientist, training in research skills in an academic research environment will be invaluable. I see this CRUK PhD as excellent opportunity to obtain that training with a multi-disciplinary team of excellent non-clinical and clinical scientists at the University of Birmingham. The project covers multiple different techniques and approaches across the gamut of modern biomedical research, including bioinformatics and statistics, genetics, molecular biology and pre-clinical animal models. This will give me the opportunity to be part of their research network and it will provide a springboard from which to develop a research programme of my own, to apply for further personal fellowships, and to allow me to continue towards my aspiration of a career as a clinical scientist.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

To increase your chances of success, it is crucial to start early and give yourself enough time to research different programs, contact potential supervisors, and prepare your application materials. Choose a program and supervisor that align with your research interests, career goals, and the program's quality. Your personal statement is your chance to convince the admissions committee why you are passionate about pursuing a PhD and why you are a good fit for the program. If you are invited for an interview, prepare carefully by thinking about potential questions and preparing answers that highlight your skills, qualifications, and research interests.

What are you most proud of?

Cancer research has advanced significantly in recent decades, resulting in the development of innovative and more effective treatments. I am proud to be part of the scientific community working tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients.

What is your educational background?

I joined the university in 2017 on the MBChB course. In 2021 I completed an intercalated BMedSc in Clinical Sciences, where my research project focused on cell-in-cell structures in hepatocellular carcinoma. Shortly after in 2022, I started my CRUK MBPhD in the Withers lab.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

I initially applied to study medicine at the university because of the wide range of clinical experiences on offer in Birmingham. I was also aware of the research opportunities available throughout the course, such as the intercalated BMedSc I completed. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

Since starting at the university, I have sought out opportunities to be involved in research. My first experience of lab work was at the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences supervised by Dr Grand in 2018. Following on from second year of the MBChB course, I explored research into the neuroscience of appetite with Dr Spetter in the Eating Behaviour Research Group. However, I found I was most drawn to cancer immunology through a student-selected component concerning combination therapy with nivolumab and ipilimumab in the treatment of melanoma, supervised by Dr Zuo at the Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy. This project introduced me to the sophisticated mechanisms of checkpoint blockade, its revolutionary therapeutic benefits, the unexpected side effects, as well as the ethical nuance of trialling novel cancer therapies in those patients nearing the end of life. This experience influenced my choice of intercalated degree and the subsequent cancer immunology focus of my PhD project.

What is your research focused on?

Understanding immune cell migration and regulation in the context of metastatic disease. In particular, the relationship between peripheral CD8 T cell populations and those in the tumour. How systemic and durable protection is established remains poorly understood and has the potential to help design therapeutic approaches relevant to cancer metastasis, which ultimately kills most cancer patients. I am supervised by Professor David Withers and Professor Gary Middleton. 

The Withers lab established novel experimental models that enable tracking of immune cell recruitment and exit from tumours in vivo, alongside careful dissection of how cells change over time. These studies revealed how specific CD8 T cell populations are preserved through limiting their time within the tumour; and to what extent certain T cell populations egress the tumour, providing direct cellular links to the response within tumours and immune populations in the periphery. My PhD project has developed these models to enable investigations into metastatic disease. 

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

The Cancer Research UK Intercalating PhD Studentships allow for unique early development of scientific thinking and skills that can be carried forward into future clinical practice. It is increasingly evident that manipulation of immune responses will revolutionise the treatment of cancer, and I hope to be involved in this area of research throughout my career; I am grateful to have been given this opportunity as an important first step. 

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD? 

Make sure that you contact supervisors and current PhD students in the lab and get a real feel for the environment you are thinking of joining. All labs are different, and it is important to find one that suits your needs and what you want to achieve. It will help you to understand the area of research and the day-to-day realities of lab work. Hearing their first-hand experience will help inform your decision as to whether you will enjoy the project.

What are you most proud of? 

Making the choice to apply to the CRUK MBPhD!

What is your educational background?

I am a medical student at the University of Birmingham, having completed 3 years of the MBChB programme. After my 3rd year, I intercalated in BMedSc Clinical Sciences and completed a project exploring T cells in hypoxia with Professor Daniel Tennant. During my intercalation year I applied to the CRUK MBPhD programme and started my MBPhD studies in June 2021. 

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

I visited the University of Birmingham during my A-Levels on one of the open days. I was impressed with the medical school facilities and course structure, as well as the amazing links with local hospitals and research institutes. I also fell in love with the University campus and broad range of student-led societies!

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

During my pre-clinical years on the MBChB programme I was drawn to the research aspect of all the content and knew I wanted to specialise in a research-focused career as an academic clinician. I especially enjoyed oncology and immunology modules, hence choosing a project for my intercalation in these areas. Whilst learning lab techniques during my intercalation year I found I loved the lab environment and engaging with the background science. Therefore, I decided to apply to the CRUK MBPhD course so I could continue this research further.

What is your research focused on?

My PhD project explores the impact of hypoxia on CD8+ T cells in the tumour microenvironment of multiple myeloma, a haematological cancer of plasma cells arising in the bone marrow. I work with Dr Sarah Dimeloe in the Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy and Professor Daniel Tennant in the Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research. CD8+ T cells are important effectors in the body’s response against cancer, and many tumour microenvironments are hypoxic. Thus, understanding how and why CD8+ T cells function in hypoxia is crucial for cancer outcomes. In my final year, I am now focusing on working with patient multiple myeloma samples to understand if the mechanisms I have underpinned in healthy samples is replicated in the disease context.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

Completing a CRUK MBPhD will be invaluable in my future career. I hope to continue along the path of academic medicine, and one day, specialise in oncology or haematology. I have been able to create good networks and developed my own academic interests that will allow me to continue research throughout the rest of medical school and my postgraduate training. I have also significantly developed personal skills, such as communication, teamwork and leadership, and have had the privilege of attending conferences and seminars to widen my professional network.  

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD? 

Make sure you like research! Or if applying to a lab-based project, that you like being in the lab. Try to get some experience or do some reading in your research area before applying to the PhD just to make sure you are passionate about the subject. You’ll spend many hours reading or in the lab – and a lot of the time, things won’t work or make sense. So, by making sure you’re really passionate about the subject will mean you won’t lose your love for it along the way. Also, just be yourself in applications and interviews, and let your enthusiasm show!

What are you most proud of? 

During my academic journey, I am most proud of being awarded the CRUK MBPhD Studentship. Whilst at times it has been challenging, it has opened up many opportunities and I have seen immense personal and academic growth. I have loved every second of my PhD journey and I am so grateful to have been selected. 

What is your educational background?

I completed my undergraduate degree in MSci Pharmacology at UCL in 2018.  During my master’s year at UCL, I conducted a 9-month extended research project in neuropharmacology and electrophysiology, which allowed me to develop laboratory and analytical skills and gave me an insight into the life of a research scientist. I started my MBChB at the University of Birmingham in 2019 and am intercalating my MB-PhD before I complete my final year of medical training.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham has a broad range of hospitals and a diverse patient population - making it an excellent place to train as a doctor. I applied to Birmingham Medical School due to its reputation for academic excellence and links to both scientific and translational research. I also liked the overall structure of the accelerated graduate-entry course, feeling that the early clinical exposure it offered would facilitate and consolidate my learning in first year. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

During my time at UCL, I gained a love for scientific research and enjoyed working in a laboratory setting. However, I felt that I would gain the most professional satisfaction through a career in which I could apply my scientific knowledge to benefit patients. I concluded that a career as an academic clinician, in which I would be able to balance patient care with scientific research and medical education, would best fit my academic and personal strengths. To meet my career goals, it is vital to enter the medical profession as a clinician who is both scientifically and medically trained. I felt that obtaining an intercalated PhD through the CRUK MB-PhD programme would provide me with robust training in experimental research methods, enhance my ability to manipulate and critically appraise data, and develop my skills in communicating complex scientific information. Possessing these skills from the very beginning of my career will allow me to keep abreast of rapid advances in the field as I move through foundation and specialty training. 

What is your research focused on? 

The most common primary cancer of the CNS, glioblastoma has an aggressive course of disease and defies treatment with conventional therapies. Conditions within the glioblastoma microenvironment, including hypoxia, are thought to drive tumorigenesis. Like all cancers, gliomas exploit mechanisms used in the physiological regulation of metabolism to sustain growth. Metabolic reprogramming is also central to the adaptive response of tumours to hypoxia. Solid tumours like glioblastoma are subject to spatiotemporal variations in oxygen tension, creating gradients of hypoxia inducible factors that produce distinct metabolic phenotypes in cell populations throughout the tumour. The spatial distribution of these phenotypes and the effects of hypoxia gradients on glioblastoma metabolism are yet to be fully characterised. 
 
Led by my first supervisor Dr Victoria Wykes, BRAIN STAT is a programme established between Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham and the University of Birmingham that aims to develop clinically annotated advanced tumour models for commonly encountered brain tumours such as glioma. Informed by the expertise of my second supervisor, Professor Daniel Tennant, and his lab, the aim of my PhD project is to use single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to further our understanding of hypoxia as a driver of metabolic adaptation in glioma. To facilitate my work, I am receiving training in bioinformatics and computer science. 
 
By analysing publicly available scRNA-seq datasets for glioblastoma and single-cell transcriptomes from patient-derived glioblastoma organoids developed in-house via BRAIN STAT, I will be able to assess how hypoxia contributes to the development of distinct metabolic regions in glioblastoma. As the more hypoxic regions of glioblastoma tumours are thought to contribute significantly to treatment resistance and disease progression, scRNA-seq will enable me to analyse the cell types contributing to these spatially distinct metabolic phenotypes. Through this, we can better understand the pathophysiology of the disease, and potentially identify therapeutic targets and metabolic biomarkers specific to glioblastoma. 

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

The University of Birmingham has a strong track record of delivering clinically relevant cancer research, as evidenced by its links to Cancer Research UK and large Clinical Trials Unit. Undertaking a PhD in such an active research environment will also help me to establish a network that I hope will benefit me as I enter professional life and move towards my goal of becoming an academic clinician. Undertaking the CRUK MB-PhD at the University of Birmingham has also provided me with some amazing educational and professional development opportunities, such as attending the CRUK Clinical Research Fellows Meeting, University Hospitals Birmingham neurosurgical training and outreach days, and the British Neuro-Oncology Society AGM.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

An MB-PhD is a rewarding but challenging experience: you are responsible for your training and education and will need to create a structure for yourself from day one to ensure you meet your research milestones. This can be hard to adapt to coming from medical school, which is an inherently structured environment where you don’t have to define your own goals.  Developing a good working relationship with your supervisors and collaborating with others will help provide alternate perspectives and enable you to learn the skills you need. A passion and aptitude for your subject is not only necessary to conduct your work but will see you through during hard times and setbacks. Things can, and will, go wrong, and a cool head and strength of character will help you work through problems in your project. 
 
As an MB-PhD student, you’re both a trainee scientist and future clinician. In your application, show the interview panel the unique skillset that you bring to the table - don’t just focus on your research experience and scientific knowledge, but think about the advantages your medical training can bring to a lab – deductive reasoning, lateral thinking, and people skills make you a major asset to science!  If you’re interested in an MB-PhD and in the early years of med school, think about intercalating a BSc first; building a portfolio of research projects will show you’re scientifically capable and connect you with potential supervisors. Finally, a PhD project with clinical or translational links will motivate you and enable you to keep your clinical brain engaged during your time out of training.

What are you most proud of? 

During the first year of my MB-PhD, I found out that I have a rare and severe form of hip dysplasia and require two major orthopaedic surgeries to avoid early-onset arthritis and likely hip replacements in my thirties. This meant I needed to plan my PhD around two 3-month leaves of absence and had to adapt my project to fit around this with the help of my supervisors. It took a lot of grit to get through my first recovery period (having your pelvis and femur broken in four places - wouldn’t recommend it!), but I started back on time and I’m really proud of how I’m managing my studies in the face of such a huge personal challenge. As both a medical and PhD student, the experience of being a patient recovering from a serious health condition has been very eye-opening and has given me a huge amount of motivation and perspective in my approach to my clinical and research training.

What is your education background? 

I am a medical student studying at the University of Birmingham since 2016 who has completed an intercalated BMedSc (Medical Sciences) in 2018. I am now about to embark on an intercalated MB-PhD under the supervision of Dr Gianmarco Contino at the Cancer Research UK Birmingham centre.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

As a local student, Birmingham was one of my top choices when I applied to study medicine. This was not only because of the course and the quality of medical education here, but also due to the university’s close links with cancer research institutions. Being incredibly interested in the pathogenesis of cancer and how patients are cared for in oncology, I realised that Birmingham was the perfect place to start my medical training and pursue my interest at the same time. And so, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to enrol as a PhD student at the centre, a leading player at the forefront of cancer research.  

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

When the intercalated MB-PhD programme was first announced, I was very excited. To hear that the centre was looking to recruit medical students and turn them into competent clinical researchers, this was something that I really wished to be a part of. The landscape of oncology is constantly changing, and it is now even more crucial for aspiring clinicians to make sense of the latest research for their patients.

As well as developing the skills to carry out high impact research, the programme allows us to collaborate with expert academics and even offers support for us to present our work at conferences around the world. These are just a few benefits, which I hope to fully take advantage of over the next four years.

What is your research focused on?

My research is focused on the genomics of oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC), a cancer most commonly found in the West. It is a disease that sadly has not seen much improvement with limited treatment options available.

OAC is a highly heterogenous cancer with cells containing all kinds of complex genomic alterations. Large-scale events are considered to be the main drivers of OAC but so far remain uncharacterised. Using organoids to model the disease in vitro, I am looking to identify some of these large-scale events and explore how these cancer cells adapt to these genomic changes. The hope is that future findings can be applied to improve patient stratification and may uncover new vulnerabilities to exploit therapeutically.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

During my training, I hope to learn and apply a broad range of research skills, from mastering specific techniques to independently designing and managing my experiments. Over time, I hope to gain the confidence and experience to pursue an academic career after the programme.

My end goal is to be an academic clinician helping cancer patients at the bedside and benchside in the future. A CRUK intercalated MB-PhD will be instrumental in achieving this as my current aspiration is to become an oncologist who is both scientifically-informed and clinically-experienced.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

The most important piece of advice I can give is to make sure you are absolutely passionate in your subject. A PhD is a strenuous yet rewarding experience – one that I have only just begun! Be sure that your research is in your area of interest. 

I would highly recommend you reach out to PhD students and potential supervisors when you apply. Current students will be able to tell you what it is like to be on the course. Talking to supervisors will help you learn more about their projects but also find a supervisor you can work with.

What are you most proud of?

Being selected as one of the first medical students for the intercalated MB-PhD programme is one of my proudest moments along with getting into medical school. As mentioned, there will be much to take on board, but it is a journey that I am looking forward to. Undertaking a PhD in cancer genomics whilst at medical school is something I never thought was possible. I cannot wait to see what comes out of the project!

What is your education background?

I have been a student at the University of Birmingham for 6 years. I completed by undergraduate degree in BMedSc Medical Sciences in 2017 and I thoroughly enjoyed the content and scientific training in this course. During this degree, I undertook two laboratory research projects in the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences in the area of the DNA Damage Response. However, I decided that I would like to pursue a career in Medicine knowing I could continue to carry out research as an academic clinician. I started on the Graduate Entry Medicine course in 2017 and have completed 3 years of that degree prior to starting my PhD. 

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

I wanted to study at the University of Birmingham as I was impressed with the broad range of content, facilities and structure of the BMedSc course and the opportunities to get involved with the wide range of academic research happening here in Birmingham. I found it unique that the programme was situated within the Medical School where students are taught by both scientists and medics and we had the chance to be exposed to both basic laboratory science and translational science.Having been a student here already, I was desperate to be accepted onto the Medicine programme because I felt Birmingham Medical School has lots of opportunities for Medical Students to be involved in the research taking place both in hospitals and in the laboratories. Birmingham also has a very diverse patient population which means we learn so much from seeing a range of patients and conditions. Furthermore, the facilities to train as a doctor here are excellent. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

I knew that I wanted to be an academic clinician at the start of my Medicine programme and had an established interest in Cancer Genomics. During my clinical placements in Oncology I realised how much I enjoyed the speciality and I got a really positive feeling that I could see myself doing the job. I also noticed how important an understanding of underlying science is when making treatment decisions and communicating with patients. I could see how Oncology would be a great speciality to pursue my interest becoming an academic clinician. When I was made of aware of the opportunity, I genuinely could not have thought of a more perfect opportunity given my intended career.

What is your research focused on?

I chose my project based on my previous experience and interest in the DNA Damage Response. I will be working in both the Stewart lab and Stankovic lab where my project is working on using a synthetic lethal approach to specifically target Atm deficient lymphomas. My aim will be to study the genetic interaction between Plk4, Cdk6, Cdk9 and Atm in vitro, identify the cellular mechanism underlying this synthetic lethality and to determine whether chemical inhibition of these kinases can be used in vivo to specifically kill Atm deficient tumours using a mouse xenograft model.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

The CRUK PhD will be immensely helpful in my career path as an Academic Oncologist. Carrying out a PhD would not only enable me to develop my laboratory skills but would also provide me with an invaluable experience relating to how academic research is carried out. The experience will be vital for me learning how to devise a research project, how to problem solve, how to properly control an experiment, how to properly analyse my data and lastly, how to convey my results to an audience. The University of Birmingham has a strong translational orientation I hope to establish collaborative links with both clinicians and academics that will hopefully facilitate the development of my career.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

I would say that it is important to be yourself when writing your application, be honest and let your enthusiasm shine through in your writing rather than writing what you think people want to hear. Highlight your specific interests and how a PhD will help you in your career. I think its also important to speak to PhD students and get an idea of what is it like so you know it is definitely for you before embarking on one.

What are you most proud of?

I am really proud of the data I produced in my BMedSc research projects because I was quite inexperienced, and I produced data of publishable quality. It was very rewarding to produce quality data and it gave me confidence when applying to the PhD programme that I was capable.However, I am most proud of being awarded the CRUK PhD Studentship. I know I have only just started but it is such a prestigious award and such a unique and exciting opportunity. I am so grateful to have been selected and I am really enjoying being back in the lab!

What is your education background?

I’ve been a medical student at UoB since 2019 and completed my first three years of the MBChB programme before I intercalated in Clinical Sciences (cancer sciences stream) BSc(I) from 2022-23. During that year I was able to work under the supervision of Dr Gianmarco Contino, completing a research project focussed on the genomics of oesophageal cancer. Throughout this year I was able to develop foundational research skills that I could use when entering my MB-PhD. As of 2023, I am in my first year of the programme and have continued as a member of the Contino lab, expanding my intercalation project to encompass in vitro modelling of my intercalated findings. 

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

My main attraction to UoB was when applying for my undergrad as a medical student: the campus, access to large medical facilities, and a recognised medical school. I was mostly unaware of the research facilities and partnerships the university had, so was excited to learn how accessible research opportunities were to student here – particularly in cancer science and medicine which is a principal interest of mine. 

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

The first time I learnt of the programme I was immediately drawn to it; I was passionate about cancer science after completing modules regarding cancer and oncology during my MBChB. The PhD seemed like an excellent opportunity to engage in research before beginning my clinical career and within an area of study I was enthusiastic about. Furthermore, the programme is very accessible for anyone in the MBChB programme who wants to take time off without it impacting their medical career, and if anything, it bolsters you professional and clinical portfolio by providing you with skills in demand throughout the healthcare professions.

What is your research focused on?

My research is focussed on entire chromosomal changes in oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC); largely assessing changes in ploidy and its effects on the cancer genome and in response to cancer therapeutics. The project took foundation during my intercalated BSc(I), however is now expanding to model ploidy changes I identified during my undergrad. We are working towards developing in vitro models of these changes and then assessing any avenues of therapeutic vulnerability. 

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

The CRUK PhD provides many forms of assistance within my career; in terms of my early career as a clinician the PhD provides a competitive edge to applying to a Specialised Foundation Programme (SFP) upon graduating medical school. Later in my career, it will continue to show to future clinician-research programmes I apply for that I am committed to research and have the skills to undertake research whilst also being a practicing clinician. I am still early in my career path however, so it would be hard to pin down a speciality I am interested in, but the breadth of skills I’ve developed will assist me in many medical fields such as internal medicine, surgery, oncology, pathology, immunology, upper GI etc. The programme really is excellent for homing in your focus on specialities that interest you whilst providing skills that will last you your entire career. 

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

The main thing you want as a PhD is to feel supported by your supervisor or supervisor team. This really can make or break your experience and determine what you get out of your PhD. It can seem overwhelming when choosing the project and lab you work with so if you have the option to, reach out to supervisors or lab members to get an idea of what it would be like working these. Second to this should be the area of research your project falls into: I came into my intercalated research hoping for a wet-lab project related to haematological malignancies but ended up doing a dry-lab project in upper GI cancers. Whilst not an area I thought I’d enjoy, it ended up being one of the best experiences of my life, and this was in large part due to the great atmosphere and support provided by my supervisor. So, if you are applying, keep an open mind to the area of research you want to go and don’t be disappointed if it is very different from your intentions – it could end up being much better than you think.

What are you most proud of?

It is, by far, being awarded the MB-PhD studentship – it is such an excellent opportunity and I’m so grateful for being selected for it. If you are thinking of applying, you should go for it as one of the most unique research opportunities available to MBChB students. 

What is your education background? 

I have been a student at the University of Birmingham for over 5 years. I began my MBChB in 2018, then after my 4th year I completed the intercalated Master of Public Health (MPH) degree. This was the stepping stone to my current intercalated MBPhD with CRUK.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

From the moment I stepped onto campus at an open day, I knew that the University of Birmingham was the place for me. The academic excellence, the range of extracurricular activities, the diversity, and the beautiful campus (especially the Green Heart) were clear indicators of how this University works hard to optimise the learning experience. Even after several years study, I am still convinced that UoB was the right choice.

What attracted you to the CRUK PhD program?

CRUK offers a unique studentship opportunity which is unlike anything I had previously encountered. It facilitates engagement in vital research, while still providing students with ample support academically, personally, and financially. Furthermore, it provided me with a great opportunity to progress my MPH research. 

What is your research focused on?

My research is exploring sociocultural barriers to cervical cancer prevention (specifically HPV vaccination), screening, and early detection services for UK minority ethnic groups. This will be enhanced by conducting parallel fieldwork in a minority ethnicity country of origin to understand how migration mediates the identified sociocultural factors. 

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career?

One of my career aspirations is to engage in a combination of academic and clinical work. The CRUK MBPhD will be helpful in achieving this because it will give notable support to my applications for academic foundation year posts and academic clinical fellow roles after medical school. Going further, the MBPhD will open up teaching opportunities within the University during my studies which will provide valuable teaching experience. 

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

1. Believe that you can do this. My first hurdle was managing the PhD application process during a busy period of my master’s degree. Nevertheless, I gave it my best go…and here I am! Regardless of your background or the odds that may be stacked against you, believe in the abilities you have been given and don’t count yourself out before you have given yourself a chance.
2. Ask around. Getting insight from your current/former tutors, mentors, administrators, family, friends, and others who have done/are doing PhDs can be helpful. They can give you a flavour of what to expect, advice on things you may need to do, and much-needed support during and after the application process. 
3. Build on your existing academic relationships. I was blessed to have a fantastic supervisory team in my Masters who have come along with me to the PhD. If you have already developed good working relations with academics, feel free to utilise these going into your doctoral-level programme. This can put you a step ahead in terms of understanding how your team works, the skillsets of each member, and how to maintain a constructive team dynamic.   

What are you most thankful for?

Had you asked me even a couple of years ago, I would not have guessed that I would be studying a PhD funded by one of the UK’s largest charities. Since I came to this University, the right opportunities have providentially come together in unexpected ways at just the right times. Though I never expected to be where I am today, all things have worked together for the good. Furthermore, I am grateful to have been selected for the CRUK MBPhD programme and by God’s grace, this will be a lifechanging step forward in my learning career.

What is your educational background?

I gained my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science from Keele University in 2019. During my 14-week placement in a pathology laboratory, I developed an interest in cancer biology which motivated me to pursue further study in this area. In 2019 I began a Master of Research degree in Cancer Science at the University of Birmingham, and I am now in my third year of a CRUK-funded non-clinical PhD.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

I grew up near Birmingham, so I already knew that Birmingham is a wonderful city and a great place to study. Personally, it was important for me to be able to commute from home to my studies and with excellent transport links and its own train station the University of Birmingham was the perfect choice.

What is your research focused on? 

My research is focused on investigating new mechanisms of resistance to a target anti-cancer therapy known as PARP inhibitors. PARP inhibitors selectively destroy cells with defects in specific DNA damage repair pathways but one of the major barriers in the clinical success of PARP inhibitors is the frequent development of resistance. During my project I will be investigating a potential new mechanism of drug resistance involving the lysine methyltransferase enzyme SETD1A, and how resistant cells may be targeted with alternative therapies to improve patient outcomes.

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

As a CRUK-funded student I have access to a wide range of support designed to aide me during my development as an early career researcher. I have been able to attend networking and training events to develop connections with fellow researchers and potential collaborators, as well as having access to travel grants to allow me to present my research at international conference to increase the visibility and impact of my research. Not only that, being affiliated with the world’s largest independent cancer research charity with a prestigious reputation for research excellence will be very attractive to future employers.

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

In my view, one of the most important considerations when applying for a PhD is to ensure you have a good relationship with your supervisor as you will have to work closely with them for the next four years. Therefore, my number one piece of advice would be to arrange to meet with potential supervisors whether in person or virtually. This is an excellent opportunity to gain a better understanding of the project and allows you to gauge whether you and your supervisor will have a good working relationship.

What are you most proud of? 

It goes without saying that I am extremely proud of being awarded a fully funded CRUK PhD position, this feeling is heightened by the fact I am a first-generation graduate student as neither of my parents attended university and I have navigated the sometimes overwhelming and confusing world of academia independently.

What is your educational background?

I graduated from the University of Leeds with a first class degree in Biology in July 2020. I knew that I wanted to pursue research as a career but was unsure how best to go about it. So, in that September I started an MRes in Biosciences in the Genetics stream at University College London, which really helped me gain valuable laboratory experience. I finished my MRes in September 2021 and started my CRUK-funded PhD at the University of Birmingham a few weeks later.

Why did you want to study at the University of Birmingham?

Whilst I am not from the Midlands, both sides of my family are, so I knew both the city and the University quite well. I wanted to move away from home but also knew that I would need family support during my studies, so the University of Birmingham was a perfect solution. As well as this, the project I am working on complemented both my undergraduate research project (DNA damage repair) and my masters research project (zebrafish models of haematopoiesis). It was a very happy coincidence!

What is your research focused on? 

My project looks at a bone marrow failure syndrome called GATA2 deficiency. Patients with mutations in GATA2 frequently acquire further mutations and develop blood cancers such as acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), but how this occurs is unknown. I am investigating how GATA2 mutations alter expression of DNA damage repair genes and how these contribute to the development of leukaemia. 

How will a CRUK PhD help you with your career? 

A CRUK PhD will help prepare me for a career in research, aiding my development in not only practical laboratory experience but also in my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This PhD has already provided me the opportunity network and to present a poster of my research at a conference. All these skills will all help to open doors for me after completion of my PhD.  

What advice would you give to someone applying for a PhD?

Firstly, be sure that the project is definitely something you want to do. When cells get infected, your PCR fails or an experiment goes wrong, it’s a lot easier to pick yourself up when you are passionate about your project. Secondly, talk to the prospective supervisor of the project you’re interested in and (if you can) talk to post-docs or other students so you can find out what it’s like to be in the lab. If you’re not sure, don’t rush to decide.

What are you most proud of? 

I am most proud of how far I have come. Not only in an academic sense, when at high school doing a PhD felt like a million miles away, but also in terms of my mental wellbeing. It is very easy to tie your mood to your research, being happy with the positives and disappointed in the negatives. Doing a PhD has helped make me celebrate the positives when they come and accept that the negatives will exist, but it doesn’t make me a worse scientist when they happen.