Miss Ermira Mulliqi

Research project: Biological and clinical significance and targeting of HER family members in brain cancer

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive and fatal types of brain tumours. Despite the major advances in surgical procedures, image directed radiotherapy and temozolomide chemotherapy in the last few decades, the prognosis for patients with GBM remains poor. Using a wide range of molecular and biological techniques, the aims for this PhD research programme are to investigate the biological and clinical significance growth factor receptors and cancer stem cells in the brain cancer and their predictive values for the response to therapeutic interventions. The results of this investigation will help identify the independent signal transduction pathways in brain cancer but also help define which enhances its malignant behaviour. This will hopefully then help to overcome primary and secondary resistance of brain tumour to current forms of therapy. 

Biography

My time as an undergraduate opened my eyes to how exciting and innovative science can be. I recently graduated in Biomedical science where I was awarded with a First-class BSc (hons) at Kingston University where during my final year project I had the opportunity to touch upon these areas and I realised that a PhD would be the best path to take to cement and build these skills. I am a confident, efficient, and flexible individual with a positive mindset which is vitally important when doing a research degree. I am a person of a team where I will lead and guide to reach a goal.The future is very bright when completing a PhD and I plan in working in prestigious cancer research companies where I can contribute and make all the ideas, I have a reality.

Areas of research interest

  • Brain cancer

Qualifications

  • BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science at Kingston University

Funding or awards received

  • 10k bursary award