Immunopeptidomic guided discovery and validation of novel myeloma-specific targets for CAR-T therapy

About the Project

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable blood cancer for which CAR T-cell therapies have shown significant promise; however, their effectiveness is limited by antigen escape and off-tumour toxicity. This project aims to identify and validate novel myeloma-specific targets for CAR-T therapy using an immunopeptidomics-guided approach. By profiling peptides presented on HLA molecules from myeloma cell lines and primary patient samples, and comparing them with healthy controls, tumour-specific antigens will be identified using high-resolution mass spectrometry and bioinformatic analysis. Lead candidates will be functionally validated through T-cell activation assays. Validated targets will then be tested in physiologically relevant 3D myeloma models that recapitulate the bone marrow microenvironment. This work will support the development of next-generation CAR-T therapies with improved specificity for multiple myeloma.

Funding Notes

This PhD studentship is funded by Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI (LLNI)

UK studentships - cover tuition fees and include a maintenance stipend of £21,805 per annum, together representing an investment in your education of more than £75,000.

A UK studentship is open to UK and ROI nationals, and to EU nationals with settled status in the UK, subject to meeting specific nationality and residency criteria.

For further details on eligibility, please refer to the DfE Postgraduate Studentship Terms and Conditions:

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