Project details

While some non-small cell lung cancer patients benefit from immunotherapies, not all patients respond. In approximately one third of patients, genetic alterations in tumour suppressor genes make the tumours 'immune-cold' and non-responsive to immunotherapy. Therefore, new treatment combinations tailored to these genetic subtypes are needed to boost immunotherapy response. 

We have generated several in vitro and in vivo models to study the effect of the lung cancer genetic subtype on tumour biology and response to therapies (Best, Cell Metabolism 2022 34, 874-887). This project will utilise genetic (CRISPR-Cas9 technologies) and pharmacological approaches to identify new drug targets and test these in combination with immunotherapy. The student will learn a variety of techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, cell culture, in vitro drug assays and FACS.  

About our research group

The Sutherland laboratory is located within the Cancer Biology and Stem Cells division and is dedicated to discovering innovative approaches to treat lung cancer. We have pioneered the use of sophisticated, immunocompetent in vivo models to identify and evaluate therapeutic approaches with the overarching goal of translating these findings to improve the management of lung cancer (Best, Cell Metabolism 2022 34, 874-887; Best, Nature Communications 2019 10(1):4190).