Engineering imaging agents to expand function and options in cancer management

Application process

A completed online application must be submitted by 4.30 pm 22 September 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Any required supporting documentation (including references) must also be received by 4.30 pm on the closing date in order for the application to be considered.

Project number

119

Project description

This research aims to engineer a bacteria-derived siderophore (iron-transporting molecule), to enable it to tightly bind zirconium instead. Radioactive zirconium is used in positron emission tomography (PET) and enables sensitive in vivo imaging of the location of any molecules the zirconium is associated with. Our preferred siderophore has structural features that allow it to readily be conjugated to monoclonal antibodies and then used both for PET imaging to inform surgical decision-making, and also to visibly guide tumour resection during surgery.

Applicants should ideally have experience working with non-ribosomal peptide synthetase enzymes, and should contact Prof Ackerley prior to applying.

This project is for a single student.