The use of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as delivery systems has revolutionized biomedical applications, particularly in immunotherapy. LNPs can encapsulate and deliver therapeutic agents such as nucleic acids, proteins, and small molecules, enabling targeted treatment of diseases including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. This PhD project, based at the forefront of immunotherapy research, aims to develop and optimize lipid nanoparticles to enhance their effectiveness as carriers for immunotherapeutic agents, improving immune responses and treatment outcomes.
The key objectives of this research include:
- Designing and Engineering Lipid Nanoparticles: You will develop innovative strategies to engineer lipid nanoparticles with improved stability, biocompatibility, and enhanced delivery capabilities. This includes optimizing the lipid composition, particle size, and surface properties to achieve optimal cellular uptake and targeted delivery to immune cells.
- Encapsulation of Immunotherapeutic Agents: The project will focus on formulating lipid nanoparticles for the encapsulation and controlled release of immunotherapeutic agents such as mRNA vaccines, cytokines, and immune modulators. You will explore novel methods for improving the loading efficiency and bioactivity of these agents.
- Evaluating Immune Response and Efficacy: The candidate will conduct preclinical studies to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of the lipid nanoparticle formulations, assessing their ability to activate immune cells, stimulate desired immune responses, and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the treatment in various disease models.
- In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation: You will assess the safety, stability, and pharmacokinetics of the lipid nanoparticles in both in vitro cell culture systems and in vivo animal models. A focus will be placed on the nanoparticles' ability to trigger potent immune responses without causing adverse side effects.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with a background in pharmaceutical sciences, nanotechnology, chemical engineering, or related fields. Experience in nanoparticle formulation, drug delivery systems, or immunology is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will be driven to advance immunotherapy technologies with the potential to make a significant impact on cancer treatment and beyond. Other types of nanoparticles may be considered as well if with unique advantages.
Join us at the cutting edge of immunotherapy research and contribute to the development of next-generation therapeutic systems with transformative potential.
Further Information:
Chemical Engineering for Biology & Medicine website: https://xianfengchen.wixsite.com/biomaterials
The University of Edinburgh is committed to equality of opportunity for all its staff and students, and promotes a culture of inclusivity. Please see details here: https://www.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity
Closing Date:
Principal Supervisor:
Assistant Supervisor:
TBC
Eligibility:
Minimum entry qualification – an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, biomedical engineering, or cell biology.
English language requirements need to be satisfied by EU/Overseas applicants. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.
Funding:
Applications are welcomed from self-funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.
Informal Enquiries:
Dr Michael Chen (Michael.Chen@ed.ac.uk)
