The Matt Wilson Scholarship

Recipients of the Matt Wilson Scholarship 2023/2024

My research project focused on a childhood leukodystrophy called Hypomyelination with Atrophy to the Basal Ganglia and the Cerebellum (H-ABC). This disease is caused by mutations in the TUBB4A gene, which encodes microtubules in oligodendrocytes. These mutations lead to microtubule abnormalities, hypomyelination, and motor impairments. Despite existing research, the mechanisms by which these mutations disrupt microtubule structure and cause H-ABC phenotypes remain unclear. The aim of my project was to investigate, from a mechanistic perspective, how these TUBB4A mutations disrupt microtubule structure, leading to microtubule accumulation and hypomyelination.

Thanks to the Matt Wilson Scholarship, I was able to enhance specific methodologies during my project, such as optimizing microtubule production in Sf9 insect cells to determine efficient protein production. Furthermore, I employed alternative techniques when troubleshooting was necessary, which proved useful as they facilitated the progression of the project.

Ayaan Haji
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

In my research project, I focused on improving the success rate of patient-derived Precision-Cut Liver Slice (PCLS) cultures, to help create a robust model for studying megamitochondria formation in Alcohol-related liver disease. This involved a retrospective analysis of culture data and patient clinical characteristics to identify factors influencing culture viability. Additionally, I assessed soluble marker assays to evaluate their predictive accuracy for culture viability in supernatant samples.

The Matt Wilson Scholarship gave me the opportunity to apply digital pathology analysis to images of viable PCLS cultures. This approach allowed me to investigate the potential for detecting alcohol-induced megamitochondria within PCLS. Through the scholarship's generous support, I also developed my skills in histology, microscopy and whole-slide imaging, which were crucial for this analysis. I feel that these experiences have helped prepare me for a future research career, where I look forward to applying these skills.

Bhavanaa Arunakumar
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

My project optimised a single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) protocol for L2 staged Caenorhabditis elegans. The aim was to produce a synchronous population of L2 C. elegans and achieve a high yield of isolating nuclei while maintaining good quality. Our optimised protocol successfully produced a much higher yield than published protocols while maintaining quality. This project taught me new practical skills and transferable skills that are important in both research and life. Therefore, I want to thank Matt Wilson’s family for establishing the scholarship and providing support for my MRes project.

Chengxuan Ma
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MRes

The Matt Wilson scholarship allowed me to experience collaborative science by funding my visit to a partner lab at the University of Nottingham. Here I learnt how to conduct novel analytical techniques utilising mass spectrometry to detect deuterium isotope incorporation in my in vitro biological models – an approach not available to me at King’s. This collaboration underpinned the main finding of my project, which is on track to be published.

The scholarship also facilitated my participation in my first international conference: The 2024 Healthy Longevity Talent Incubator at the National University of Singapore. From this I have developed a strong network of professional connections and have built a solid foundation to which I can build my career as an academic ageing biologist.

None of this would have been possible without the funding provided by the Matt Wilson Scholarship, and I am honoured to have received this. I hope that my work has helped in upholding Matt’s legacy and I will undoubtably bring the experiences obtained from these opportunities into my future prospects as a scientist.

Declan Moran
MSci Biochemistry

My research uses human induced pluripotent stem cells to construct cerebral cortical organoids to explore the neurodevelopmental disorder caused by ARID1A mutation. The Matt Wilson Scholarship has expanded my research, which enables me to study not only changes from the perspective of morphology and neural markers, but also the development process of organoids at the level of transcriptomics. Finally, we identified the regulated pathway of Neurodevelopmental disorder, which provided the possibility for future mechanism research and development of diagnosis and treatment methods to help patients. I am very grateful to have won this scholarship to expand my skills and the potential of this project.

Heng Guo
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

The Matt Wilson Scholarship enabled me to expand the ex vivo analysis beyond determining the proportion of macrophages and T-cells in the tumours. Thanks to the fund I was able to perform spatial transcriptomics using the GeoMx® DSP system to uncover the heterogeneity of the tumour microenvironment and how it may be affected by the introduction of our reporter genes. Spatial transcriptomics is an advanced technique for insight into gene expression profiles of a tissue while preserving the 2D positional information of the cells providing a multi-dimensional in-depth account of the tumour microenvironment composition and gene expression state. I am grateful to have been able to learn such an advanced analytical technique through the fund; to be able to develop this sought-after skill for my professional advancement and contribute to the growing body of literature regarding MTLn3 cell dynamics in vivo. My project data is also currently forming the basis for several aspects of a new publication which will significantly help my scientific career progression.

Huda Hammad Rattu
MSci Biochemistry

My project focused on LaRP4A and LaRP4B, two paralogues known to function as translation promoters upon RNA binding, and reported to be involved in cancer development. My project characterised the constituents of the binding interface, and studied the differences between the paralogues in defining RNA sequence specificity.

Thanks to the Matt Wilson scholarship, we could purchase a variety of fluorescently labelled RNA oligonucleotides derived from a known target sequence of LaRP4B, which allowed us to use microscale thermophoresis (a binding affinity assay) to further characterise the target RNA motif, notably providing evidence questioning the classification of LaRP4B as an AU-rich specific RNA binding protein. These results allowed me to access the Diamond Light Source synchrotron in Oxfordshire to perform small angle X-ray scattering experiments evaluating the dynamics of the two LaRPs, an exciting and rewarding experience which provided evidence of an involvement of protein dynamics and flexibility in RNA binding and specificity.

Jad Sayegh
MSci Biochemistry

Recipients of the Matt Wilson Scholarship 2022/2023

The Matt Wilson Scholarship helped me expand my research by utilizing both CRISPR/Cas9 and base editing techniques to cure sickle cell disease, making it a promising approach for in-utero gene therapy. Furthermore, it not only provided an opportunity to attend my first-ever scientific conference on erythropoiesis control and ineffective erythropoiesis in Paris but also enabled me to get trained in flow cytometry. This allowed me to further develop my skills as a scientist. I am extremely grateful to have received this scholarship for my masters!!

Dravie Bansal
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

My project explored the mechanisms of metal detoxification in earthworms residing in environments polluted with metals. I sequenced and assembled the genome of the earthworm Lumbricus rubellus from Cwmystwyth, an abandoned mine heavily contaminated with lead, to investigate genes associated with metal detoxification.

The Matt Wilson Scholarship facilitated whole-genome sequencing on the advanced PacBio Sequel IIe platform, ensuring the assembled genome was of high quality and continuity. This opportunity allowed me to delve deeper into genomic analysis, enhancing my understanding of intricate genomic structures and their role in metal detoxification. This work lays a solid foundation for future research in environmental toxicology and genomic studies.

Jinghan Zhang
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

I would like to thank Matt's family for their financial support to conduct my Master's project "Exploring the role of BROX in the mammalian heart".

Cardiovascular research is crucial for the development of regenerative therapies for patients that have suffered from myocardial infarctions. Contributing to the understanding of cardiac disease has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my life.

My research project started with the genetic engineering of a novel line of mice with a global knockout mutation of my protein of interest. Next, my team and I performed different kinds of experiments to characterize this mouse for the first time, which included genotyping by PCR, histology, antibody staining and cell culture experiments, among other experiments that required expensive equipment and reagents, which were paid in part with the Matt Wilson scholarship.

I hope this scholarship stays in place for future students that, like me, love science and wish to bring innovation and knowledge to the world of academic research.

Mariana Alexandra Valenzuela Sanchez
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

For my research project, I joined the FOODMOOD team, which aims to explore the connection between dietary patterns and the mental health of university students, with a specific focus on the gut-brain axis. We recruited students from various Universities in London and gathered data on their diets and mental health through a combination of questionnaires. This study represented a pioneering effort, as it was the first of its kind to investigate the diet-mental health relationship among university students.

Thanks to the generous support of the Matt Wilson Scholarship, I had the opportunity to analyse 96 fecal samples using 16s rRNA sequencing. This experience not only allowed me to gain valuable insights into the associated techniques but also enhanced my proficiency in bioinformatic analysis, which will be beneficial for my future career aspirations.

Moustapha Baya
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MRes

My project focused on establishing methods to mark neuronal activity and excitatory/inhibitory cell balance in zebrafish larvae. The aim was to achieve single-cell resolution using the latest imaging techniques in both wild types and gene mutants associated with neurological disorders.

The Matt Wilson Scholarship allowed me to enhance my project by funding state-of-the-art techniques like HCR-FISH and Gateway Cloning. It also supported obtaining the necessary Home Office zebrafish personal license. Apart from this, the scholarship allowed me to visit a collaborator’s lab in Germany. During my time there, I was not only able to learn essential image registration techniques but also explore the wonderful research being conducted at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behaviour. Overall, the scholarship provided me with opportunities (inside and outside the lab) that were crucial for my growth as a young scientist.

Prathigna Thambi Jaishankar
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MRes

My MSc dissertation investigated the role of Dlk1 in the brain, focusing on its involvement in energy homeostasis and developmental pathways. This research entailed a comparative analysis between a global Dlk1 knockout mouse model and a conditional Dlk1 knockout in the mouse brain, aiming to assess the impact of Dlk1 knockout on factors such as fat accumulation, circulating leptin levels, and protein synthesis. The Matt Wilson scholarship proved instrumental, allowing me to conduct RNA sequencing on the global Dlk1 knockout mouse model and led to the discovery of how conditional Dlk1 knockout affects the Notch-signalling pathway and its potential implications on early developmental pathways.

Thanks to Matt Wilson's scholarship, I was able to speed up obtaining RNA sequence results. This accelerated timeline allowed me to stay ahead of the experimental schedule, providing me with valuable insights and data earlier than anticipated. Matt Wilson's support not only facilitated my research but also enhanced the efficiency of the entire project, ultimately contributing to its success.

Youjae Lee
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

The Matt Wilson Scholarship allowed me to expand my research project and move to Belfast for 4 months to work in a specialist 3D printing lab. Here, I was able to hone a vast amount of analytical chemistry skills which I would not have been able to do if it wasn’t for this opportunity. By the end of my project I was able to develop a novel, 3D printed implant that acts as a drug delivery system for anti glaucoma drugs. The funding paid for my living and travel costs as well as the raw materials for the project. I am immensely grateful for winning this scholarship and it has allowed me to produce an amazing dissertation that won the Gowland Hopkin Biochemistry Prize.

Fathima Afra Mohamed Paleel
MSci Biochemistry

Recipients of the Matt Wilson Scholarship 2021/2022

During my MSci in Biochemistry, my dissertation focused on investigating the utility of the human sodium iodide symporter (hNIS), as a reporter gene to track cancer metastasis and cell-based therapies. The aim of my project was to explore any possible reporter-induced changes, at the cellular and molecular level. Thanks to the Matt Wilson Scholarship, I was able to expand my project by further exploring these changes at the transcriptomic level, through performing RNA sequencing experiments. I am extremely thankful for this opportunity, and I will carry all the invaluable skills I have learnt forward, as I pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry.

Chiara Cipollone
MSci Biochemistry

My project assessed how the mineral profiles and protein content of vegan and vegetarian burgers, as well as various insect species, compared against beef burgers. This involved analysing their total, bioaccessible (soluble) and bioavailable (absorbed by cells) Fe, Zn, Ca, Cu, Mg and Mn contents. The primary focus was to find sustainable meat alternatives with the capacity to satisfy the body’s Fe and Zn requirements.

The scholarship allowed me to diverge from the main project aims, whereby I additionally characterised the elements within the insects. Energy dispersive spectroscopy was used alongside scanning and transmission electron microscopy to uncover the physical locations of the elements within and on the surface of insects. Although further work will be needed to optimise the processing protocol for the insects, the scholarship allowed me to experience additional sample preparation and processing techniques beyond that commonly used in nutrition.

Claire Lyon
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

My research project combined in silico, in vitro and in vivo laboratory techniques to develop an exciting new predictive methodology, to identify immune-modulating chemicals. The study validated these predictions made using ToxCast database with non-protected zebrafish. The Matt Wilson scholarship enabled us to observe and examine the effects of immuno-chemicals on the zebrafish neutrophils, using advanced fluorescent microscopy. This elucidated the extent of the toxic effect the chemical had on our organism's immune system.

Salwa Zabir
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

The Matt Wilson Scholarship provided access to training in imaging flow cytometry and permitted my attendance to the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB) Focused Meeting on Haemoglobin switching in Crete! This immensely advanced my project and enabled it to evolve into investigating the characteristics of sickle cell disease, particularly focusing on ineffective erythropoiesis. The was explored through the cellular and molecular analysis of the bone marrow niche and spleen, using methods including Flow Cytometry and Western Blot analysis. The results from this study are in progress to be published in a scientific journal, which would not have been possible without the support provided by the scholarship!

Lauren Pedler
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

The scholarship provided an ideal opportunity to take this topic to the next level, the transcriptomics provided additional insights into the organism’s response to xenobiotic exposure comparing acute lab exposures to soil from mine sites. The additional skills are scientifically intriguing and have enabled me to apply cutting-edge current molecular technologies. In turn, the scholarship offered a perfect addition to the set of skills I picked up throughout my research project which will be of great value for my further career as a scientist.

Sara Costa Fernandes
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MSc

I was very honoured and privileged to receive the Matt Wilson Scholarship as support throughout my MRes project, focusing on Drosophila as a model for studying epileptic seizures and investigating the role of EPG5, which is a key autophagy regulator that causes Vici syndrome in humans and epileptic seizures in Drosophila.

Thanks to the scholarship, I had a chance to train in mouse handling and extending my project not only using Drosophila but also using the murine model in collaboration with a mice behaviour expert lab, even though I had to face the fact that working with mice can be precarious and the experimental plan can always be changed due to reglementary issues.

However, this brought me another chance to focus more in-depth on the Drosophila model and present a poster on this at my first international conference, Neruofly 2022, in France. It was a great opportunity to get the chance to meet interdisciplinary scientists across the world, build up new connections and experience the real science world. By sharing ideas and data, I was able to learn cutting-edge technologies and a broad range of the latest neuroscience knowledge.

Without the scholarship, I would not be able to follow the detailed process of mice experiments and their regulation nor get a life-changing experience at my first international conference.

Seo-hyun Park
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MRes

Hematological diseases involve complex changes in gene expression critical to therapy. Transposable elements, repetitive sequences comprising a substantial portion of the human genome, are postulated to play an important role in hematological diseases. Previous studies struggle to capture such intricate details through bulk analysis, while single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), a cutting-edge technology, allows scientists to study the gene expression at finer resolution. Thanks to this scholarship, I could include scRNA-seq data of hematological disease samples in my master research. The data not only is perfect to investigate the transcriptome and microenvironment in patients, but it also enables me to study the change in the expression of transposable elements and their link to hematological diseases. The Matt Wilson Scholarship has greatly enriched my study.

Yiting Tsai
Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MRes

Gian Hobbs, recipient of the 2020/2021 Matt Wilson Scholarship

Gian Hobbs graduated from Queen Mary University of London with a BSc in Pharmacology. As an undergraduate, Gian was able to fine tune his practical skills during his wet lab dissertation assessing reactivity of both mouse and human gastrointestinal tissues. This experience stimulated his interest in in vivo experimentation which led him to join the Biomedical and Molecular Sciences Research MRes at King’s College London.

Gian began his MRes in 2020, during which he had the opportunity to undertake a 9-month research project in the field of molecular toxicology. His research aims to determine the vital pathways involved in the mechanistic processing of carcinogens, in particular Benzo[a]pyrene, in "humanized" nematodes (transgenic C. elegans).

Thanks to the scholarship, Gian was able to utilize whole genome sequencing to identify the mutational signatures in C. elegans exposed to carcinogens. His work was published in the scientific journal Environmental Pollution. Following his MRes, Gian started his PhD at King’s to work on “Understanding the immunomodulatory activity of pharmaceuticals in zebrafish using high content imaging and phenotypic profiling” which is funded by a LIDo BBSRC iCASE and AstraZeneca.

Chien-Ting Feng, recipient of the 2019/2020 Matt Wilson Scholarship

Chien-Ting Feng graduated with an MSc in Biomedical Sciences from National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan in 2019, then commenced with her MRes at King’s College London to pursue her interests in stem cell biology. She undertook an ambitious programme to create patient-derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) to model the rare Hajdu-Cheney Syndrome (HCS), characterized by excessive bone loss. KCL geneticists had previously identified activating mutations in NOTCH2 in HCS patients and Chien-Ting’ project involved the isolation and expansion of primary cells from a HCS patient. The Matt Wilson scholarship enabled Chien-Ting to perform proof-of-concept experiments which demonstrated that the inhibition of NOTCH2 signalling, via a DAPT inhibitor, blocks bone loss in vitro. This essential experiment was instrumental in moving the project forward and Chien-Ting now intends to pursue a PhD in disease modelling using iPSC technology.

Noor Siksek, recipient of the 2018/2019 Matt Wilson Scholarship

Noor Siksek graduated with a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Leicester. As an undergraduate, Noor specialised in biotechnology researching how molecular imprinted polymers can be used for drug delivery to cancer cells. Noor began her MSc at King’s College London in 2018, during which she had the opportunity to conduct a 6-month research project in the field of radiobiology. Her research aims to assess the safety of the imaging radiopharmaceutical 99mTcO4- for non-invasive SPECT imaging. Thanks to the scholarship, she was able to expand her project to include in-vivo imaging and radionuclide therapy and has submitted the work for presentation at the Auger Symposium in Oxford to be held in August 2019. Her work was published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.