3D pre-clinical models of lymphoma to advance immunotherapies

About the Project

Despite advances in the treatment of lymphomas such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma, resistance to standard therapies remains a clinical challenge. A key driver of this resistance is impaired apoptosis which prevents activation of cell death pathways and is linked to poor patient outcomes. Building on promising preliminary data, this PhD project will investigate first-in-class small-molecule inhibitors developed at Queen’s University Belfast. These compounds have shown efficacy in lymphoma cells and highlights their potential as a novel therapeutic strategy. The central aim is to determine whether these novel drugs can enhance responses to existing and emerging treatments, including chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies (e.g. rituximab), and bispecific antibodies such as glofitamab. Using traditional co-culture systems and cutting-edge three-dimensional lymphoma–immune cell models coupled with techniques such as image-enabled flow cytometry and transcriptomic profiling, the student will explore treatment responses, immune cell interactions, and underlying molecular mechanisms. This interdisciplinary project offers the opportunity to contribute to translational cancer research, with the potential to inform more effective combination therapies and improve outcomes for patients with treatment-resistant lymphoma.

Funding Notes

Funded by the Department of Economy and Leukemia and Lymphoma NI (LLNI)

For UK domiciled students the value of an award includes the cost of approved tuition fees and stipend support The 2025/26 rates are Fees £5,006, Stipend £20,780. 2026/27 To be confirmed.

For further information about eligibility criteria please refer to the DfE Postgraduate Studentship Terms and Conditions at View Website