(MCRC Clinical) The role of TIMP-1 in altering the microenvironment of liver metastases

About the project

About the Project The presence of liver metastasis is associated with poor therapy response and prognosis in multiple cancers. This project will examine how a protein called TIMP-1 affects the liver microenvironment resulting in resistance to immune therapy. TIMP-1 has a number of function including extra-cellular matrix degradation and acting as a signalling molecule affecting different immune cells. You will use a variety of state-of-the-art techniques including multiplex immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, analysis of single cell RNA sequencing, complex co-culture systems and in vivo models to address the questions. We are looking for a hard-working, focused, ambitious person to join our excellent, friendly, inclusive and collaborative team. Our laboratory makes use of a broad range of in vitro and in vivo techniques to study melanoma, with the aim of developing novel therapies for patients. We closely work with clinicians at The Christie Hospital in Manchester as well as groups both in the UK and internationally to access patient samples and data which feed into our work. The fellow would also be able to gain experience in clinical trial delivery. We would be particularly happy to receive applications from individuals with a strong academic track record and/or other laboratory research experience in cancer biology. Our laboratory believes in diversity of thinking, creativity and providing a supportive, kind, joyful environment in which people can flourish. The project will provide comprehensive training in tumour biology and immunology, pre-clinical models and data analysis positioning the candidate for an exciting future in immunology and cancer biology. Eligibility You must be a post-registration clinician and therefore must hold an MBChB degree or equivalent medical degree and ideally have a specialist post in a related subject, to apply for our Clinical Research Training Fellowships. It is generally expected that CRTFs will return to a training programme in the UK upon completion of their research degree. International applicants (including EU nationals) must ensure they meet the academic eligibility criteria (including English language) before contacting potential supervisors to express an interest in their project. Eligibility information can be found on the University's Country Specific information page. Before you Apply Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application. How to Apply Apply directly via this link: https://tinyurl.com/577zjazd or on the online application portal, select MCRC PhD Programme as the programme of study. You may only apply for one project within this scheme. Please ensure that your application includes all required supporting documents: Curriculum Vitae (CV) Supporting Statement Academic Certificates and Transcripts Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Further details are available on our website: CRUK Manchester Centre PhD Training Scheme | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester Application Timeline Applications open: Monday, 5 October 2026 Application deadline: Monday, 23 November 2026 Interview date: Week commencing 11 January 2027 Start date: September 2027 Equality, diversity and inclusion are central to the University’s activities. The full statement can be found here: https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/getting-started/equality-diversity-inclusion/”

Research areas