The project:
Proton therapy for cancer patients is currently being established for the first time in Norway. At Oslo University Hospital, Radiumhospitalet, a new proton therapy centre is opening in late 2024. In our team we are very excited to begin preclinical research projects focused on understanding how to fully utilize the potential of proton therapy.
Compared to X-rays, which is used in traditional radiotherapy, proton radiation can be more precisely delivered to the tumor. Therefore, proton therapy gives fewer side effects to healthy tissue. On the other hand, much is unknown about how the cancer cells respond to proton radiation and which chemotherapeutic drugs that are most effective in combination with proton therapy.
The goal of this project is to study the radiosensitizing effects of drugs in combination with proton radiation in glioblastoma cells. Glioblastoma is a tumor of the brain that is often radioresistant, and improved treatment strategies are highly needed. The specific aims of the project are: i) to test a panel of 10 candidate radiosensitizers in combination with proton versus X-ray irradiation by using a high-throughput cell viability assay in glioblastoma cells, and ii) to elucidate the molecular mechanisms behind the effect for one or two of these radiosensitizers.
We are seeking a highly motivated master student who is interested in an exciting project in molecular cancer research. Through this project the student will acquire skills in various laboratory methods, including human cell culturing, robotic handling, cell survival assays, Western blotting , flow cytometry analysis, and proton and X-ray irradiation of cells. The project results will potentially identify new combinations of proton therapy and anticancer drugs that can contribute to improve glioblastoma therapy in the future. It is advantageous to have a good analytical understanding and the ability to work independently and accurately. We provide a friendly and stimulating working environment.
Contact information:
Main supervisor:
- Randi G. Sylju?sen PhD (Group leader), randi.syljuasen@rr-research.no, 22781468
Co-supervisor:
- Sissel Hauge PhD (Scientist), sissel.hauge@rr-research.no
Group for Radiation biology and DNA damage signaling
Department of Radiation Biology
Institute for Cancer Research
Norwegian Radium Hospital/ Oslo University Hospital
Ullernchausseen 70
N-0379 Oslo