• Host organisation: University of Seville, Seville, Spain
  • Supervisors: Prof. Simón Méndez-Ferrer
  • Research project: DC07: Dissecting and targeting niche-dependent vulnerabilities of protection from therapy in AML

About me

"I am fascinated by how interactions in the bone marrow microenvironment can shape therapy resistance in acute myeloid leukaemia. My goal is to uncover vulnerabilities within the leukaemic niche that can be exploited for new treatment strategies.”

 

I am Thomas Henderson, and I recently completed an integrated MBiochem (Hons) degree in Biochemistry with Professional Placement at the University of Bath (UK), graduating with first-class honours and receiving the Bill Wish Prize for top student. My studies provided a broad foundation in molecular and cellular biology, with a particular focus on cancer and haematology.

 

My passion for research was sparked during a 12-month professional placement at the University of Illinois Chicago (USA), where I worked as a student research assistant. There, I investigated the role of platelet factor 4 (PF4) in acute myeloid leukaemia and its effects on leukaemia stem cells, introducing me to the field of haematology and providing a strong foundation in laboratory research. It also sparked my interest in the architecture of the bone marrow niche, which I am eager to explore further in my PhD.

 

For my master’s research project at Bath, I explored the regulation of transcriptional dynamics in cancer, developing live-cell imaging approaches to track RNA in real time. This project further strengthened my skills in imaging, molecular biology, and data analysis, and deepened my interest in the interplay between gene regulation and cancer progression.

 

As a doctoral candidate within the MIRACLE programme, I will be based in Prof. Simón Méndez-Ferrer’s group at the University of Seville, working on project DC07. My research will focus on dissecting and targeting the niche-dependent mechanisms that allow acute myeloid leukaemia cells to evade therapy. I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to study the bone marrow microenvironment and identify new therapeutic vulnerabilities that could help improve treatment outcomes for patients.

 

I am excited by the range of learning opportunities offered by the MIRACLE programme and aim to strengthen both my wet lab and bioinformatic expertise. The network’s collaborative environment will also allow me to refine my science communication skills while working closely with peers and leading experts, ensuring I can contribute effectively to advancing therapies for leukaemia minimal residual disease.

 

Outside the laboratory, I enjoy running and swimming, which help me to relax and reset my focus. I am also looking forward to exploring the city of Seville and its culture while contributing to the scientific community through the MIRACLE programme.