Glioblastoma multiforme are the most common, aggressive and fatal type of primary malignant brain tumours. Despite major advances in surgical techniques, image directed radiotherapy and temozolomide chemotherapy in the last few decades, the prognosis for patients with Glioblastoma multiforme remains poor with a median survival of 15 months, and a 1-year and 5-year survival rate of 43% and 5% respectively. The aims of my research are to investigate the role of all members of the HER family, other growth factor receptors and cancer stem cells in the progression of brain cancer and response to therapeutic interventions. In particular investigating the growth response of a large panel of brain cancer cell lines to treatment with various types of small molecule HER TKI's when used alone and in combination with other growth factor receptors, targeting agents or cytotoxic drugs.
I obtained my undergraduate degree in Biomolecular Science in Ireland, from the Dublin Institute of Technology, where in my final year I developed an interest in cancer research. I was then employed by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals as an Associate Scientist in the R&D department. I later moved to London and was employed as a Research Technician at Hammersmith Medicines Research participating in phase 1 and early phase 2 clinical trial studies. I then decided to return to University to pursue a Masters degree to further expand my knowledge and expertise in Cancer research.