PhD Studentship – Shining a Light on Cancer: Using Photodynamic Therapy to Treat Sarcomas
The Open University – Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
Location: The School of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
General Description – include all relevant details from the source
The Open University invites applications for a fully funded PhD Studentship focused on pioneering research into photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of sarcomas. This 3.25-year studentship, commencing on 1 October 2026, forms part of a collaborative project with industry partner Excellio Ltd., offering the opportunity for a short placement to gain practical experience. The research aims to advance an innovative approach to sarcoma treatment by developing targeted drug delivery systems that enhance the specificity and effectiveness of PDT — a non-invasive therapy that uses light and photosensitising agents to destroy cancer cells. The project will: evaluate the efficacy of commercial PDT drugs against a panel of sarcoma cell lines; encapsulate promising agents within targeted delivery systems; and investigate the tissue specificity of these systems using multicellular 3D cell models. Success in this work could lead to the identification of novel treatment modalities with the potential for clinical translation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold, or be expected to achieve, an upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Pharmacology, Biomedical Science, Biology, Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related discipline. The studentship is open only to UK/Home students who will be required to live within commuting distance of The Open University in Milton Keynes.
Required expertise/skills
Candidates with experience in mammalian cell culture, cell imaging/microscopy (e.g., wide-field or confocal fluorescence microscopy), and/or molecular biology techniques (such as electrophoresis, Western blotting, IHC/IF, flow cytometry) are particularly well-suited, though not essential, as all necessary techniques will be taught. Applicants should demonstrate strong communication skills, independence in scientific literature searching, and proficiency in data analysis and statistical software. A passion for scientific research and eagerness to learn are essential.
Salary details
The studentship includes a stipend of £21,805 per year (expected 2026/27 rate, indexed annually) for a maximum of 3.25 years, with all academic fees covered.
Application Deadline
Closing date for applications: 10 April 2026.