DyST: Dynamic Spatial Transcriptomics for Longitudinal Profiling of Glioblastoma Treatment Response 

Project details

First supervisor:  Dr Ciro Chiappini

Mode of study: Full-time

Eligibility:  UK / Overseas

Start dates: October,February,une

Application deadline:  Open until a suitable candidate is found

Reference number:   2026-CC02

Open to externally sponsored or self-funded applicants 

See Fees or Funding for current rates

Contact supervisor for expected bench fee rates

Project description

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is characterised by profound spatial heterogeneity and rapid adaptation to therapy, which underpin treatment resistance and poor patient outcomes. Current spatial transcriptomics approaches provide high-resolution molecular maps but are inherently destructive, preventing longitudinal analysis of the same tissue. This project will develop Dynamic Spatial Transcriptomics (DyST), a nanoneedle-enabled platform for minimally perturbative, repeated RNA sampling from living tissues. By integrating nanoneedle arrays with spatial barcoding technologies and multiplexed imaging, the student will establish a workflow to capture gene expression dynamics in tumour-bearing mouse brain slices undergoing temozolomide treatment. The platform will enable direct observation of spatiotemporal transcriptional changes and cell–cell interactions within intact tumour microenvironments. Applying DyST to GBM will uncover the molecular trajectories and spatial niches associated with the emergence of treatment resistance, establishing a broadly applicable framework for dynamic spatial biology.

Research training

The student will receive interdisciplinary training across nanotechnology, spatial transcriptomics, and computational biology. They will develop expertise in nanoneedle design, fabrication, and biointerfacing for minimally invasive sampling of live tissues. Training will include spatial transcriptomics workflows (e.g. array-based barcoding) and multiplexed imaging techniques. The student will gain experience with organotypic brain slice culture, tumour models, and treatment perturbation assays. A strong emphasis will be placed on computational analysis, including spatial data integration, image registration, and modelling of longitudinal gene expression dynamics. Additional skills will include RNA handling, sequencing library preparation, and multi-omics data interpretation. The project will also provide exposure to translational aspects of technology development, including scalability, intellectual property generation, and positioning within the rapidly evolving spatial biology landscape.

Next steps

In the first instance, please contact the supervisor to discuss your interest in the project prior to submitting an application.

To view entry requirements and further general information, see the  Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD prospectus page.

Apply online at apply.kcl.ac.uk following these steps:

1. Register a new account/login.
2. Once logged in, select Create a new application.
3. Enter ‘Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD (Full-time)' under Choose a Programme. 
4. Select your chosen start date.
5. Please note: Applicants must include the project reference number (2026-CC02) in the 'Research proposal' and 'Funding (point 5)' sections of the application

Contact for further information

•  Dr Ciro Chiappini

Related Centre: Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology

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