Tug-of-War: Dissecting the BACH1-NRF2 axis in lung cancer

About the Project

Are you interested in tackling one of the key unanswered questions in cancer biology and contributing to the development of more precise, effective treatments? We are offering an exciting 3-year PhD studentship focused on understanding how two critical proteins, NRF2 and BACH1, interact to shape the behaviour of lung tumours.

Project Background

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide, highlighting an urgent need for more effective and targeted treatment strategies. Among the molecular pathways implicated in lung tumour progression, two proteins, NRF2 and BACH1, have emerged as key players. Both are frequently elevated in lung tumours, and high levels of either protein are associated with poor patient outcomes. However, despite their importance, their relationship is poorly understood. Intriguingly, NRF2 and BACH1 often exert opposing biological functions, yet they are commonly co-activated in cancer cells, creating a complex regulatory “tug-of-war” that influences tumour behaviour.

This project aims to resolve this paradox by systematically investigating how NRF2 and BACH1 interact and jointly control lung cancer progression. The central goal of this PhD project is to generate a comprehensive and mechanistic understanding of the NRF2-BACH1 axis in lung cancer. To achieve this, the student will employ a combination of cutting-edge genome engineering, functional genomics, and pharmacological approaches. A key component of the project involves the use of a state-of-the-art CRISPR-based system.

Why this project matters

This research will:

• Uncover how two major cancer-driving proteins work together
• Inform the development of safer, more selective BACH1-targeting drugs
• Help identify which patients are most likely to benefit from these therapies
• Contribute to the future of personalised lung cancer treatment

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applicants with a strong background in molecular and cell biology, cancer biology, or a related discipline. Ideal candidates will be curious, motivated, and excited by interdisciplinary research.

What you’ll gain

• Training in cancer biology, molecular and cell biology techniques, advanced genome engineering, functional genomics and biophysical techniques.
• Experience with cutting-edge drug discovery approaches
• Opportunities to present your work at conferences and collaborate internationally
• A chance to contribute to research with real clinical impact

Be part of a project that bridges fundamental biology and real-world cancer treatment.

Diversity statement

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.