PhD Studentship – Development of Human Lung Cancer Organoid Models to Study Anticancer Drug Response
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
This fully funded PhD studentship invites an ambitious researcher to contribute to cutting‑edge cancer research by developing and validating human lung cancer organoid models that mimic the complex biology of tumours and enable meaningful assessment of therapeutic responses. Lung cancer remains one of the world’s deadliest cancers, and traditional two‑dimensional cell cultures often fail to capture the heterogeneity and treatment sensitivity of real tumours. In this project, you will establish and characterise organoid systems derived from non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and patient‑derived samples, exploring how these three‑dimensional models reflect tumour architecture, genetic diversity, and drug responsiveness. Through rigorous evaluation of existing models and generation of new organoid lines, you will assess responses to standard‑of‑care and novel anticancer drugs, deepening understanding of how tumours interact with therapeutic agents and informing future therapeutic strategies. This research offers an exceptional opportunity to work at the interface of translational cancer biology, personalised medicine, and innovative model development, gaining expertise in organoid culture, drug testing platforms, and biomarker analysis in a highly collaborative environment.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold, or be in the final year of, a degree with at least an upper second‑class honours (2:1) or equivalent in biomedical sciences, cancer biology, molecular biology, or a closely related discipline. A genuine interest in cancer research and preclinical model systems is essential.
Required Expertise, Skills
The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong laboratory skills, particularly in cell culture and molecular biology techniques, and an eagerness to learn advanced organoid culture methods. Experience with cancer biology research, drug response assays, and quantitative data analysis will support success in this project.
Salary Details
This position includes a tax‑free stipend of £21,805 per year, aligned with UKRI funding levels, to support the successful candidate throughout the duration of the studentship.
Application Deadline
Applications for this studentship close on 06 March 2026.