Clinical Pharmacology Adaptive Therapy Group
Professor Banerji's group aims to study re-wiring of signal transduction to understand and overcome mechanisms of drug resistance and, in addition, to understand exploit cancer evolution using pharmacological tools.
We are focused on the re-wiring of signal transduction using established cell lines to control mechanisms of drug resistance and comprehend the evolution of cancer.
Rewiring of signal transduction
This group is working on the set-up and validation of a highly sensitive antibody-based assay on the Nanostring platform which will allow quantification of 50 - 100 phosphoproteins/proteins. It plans to digest tumour tissue obtained during surgery or from biopsies and expose them to a matrix of 20 - 30 anticancer drugs before obtaining phosphoproteomic data.
It also aims to use organoids and patient-derived xenografts to take this forward. The proteomic data will be modelled with the Computational Biology and Chemogenomics Team led by Professor Bissan Al-Lazikani. The group also supports PhD students studying the re-wiring of signal transduction in colon cancer and the role of stroma in influencing signal transduction.
The group also currently works with Professor Andrea Sottoriva at the Centre for Evolution and Cancer at the ICR to look at barcoding of cancer cells and the study of evolutionary trajectories of clones under experimental conditions. It is also studying mechanisms of resistance, collateral drug sensitivity and resistance of these emergent clones.
The primary area of this group is focused on the re-wiring of signal transduction using established cell lines as well as fresh cancer cells derived and isolated from patients and then exposing them to novel anticancer drugs. Pre- and post-proteomic profiling provides insights into mechanisms of drug resistance and how to overcome this with combination therapies. The initial work was carried out using cancer cells isolated from ascites and pleural effusions; the group in now developing expertise in organoid and patient-derived xenograft tissue.
The group develops its own antibody-based proteomic platforms and collaborates with teams involved in mass spectroscopic methods, led by Jyoti Choudhary. The group generates significant amounts of data and collaborates with the ICR's Computational Biology and Chemogenomics Team led by Professor Bissan Al-Lazikani to develop and decipher the data.
The secondary focus of this lab is the study of the pharmacological effects on cancer evolution in experimental models and methods to quantify this and herd cancer cells to a vulnerable state.
Professor Banerji works with Professor Andrea Sottoriva in the Centre for Evolution and Cancer at the ICR and plans to translate these concepts in to the clinic.
Vacancies at the ICR
Working at the ICR
Group Leader in In Vivo Cancer Modelling
The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in London seeks to appoint a Group Leader in In Vivo Cancer Modelling to play a pivotal role in advancing our cutting-edge cancer research. The position is based at the newly established Centre for In Vivo Modelling (CIVM), part of the Division of Cancer Biology. We welcome applications at both the Career Development Faculty and Career Faculty levels. Key Requirements The successful candidate will generate and employ state-of-the-art genetic and humanised mouse models of cancer to tackle fundamental and translational questions in haemato-oncology and/or solid tumour oncology. In addition to leading a successful research group, they will expand the CIVM's research capabilities and foster productive collaborations with other groups and centres at the ICR, thus promoting in vivo modelling by integrating it into multidisciplinary projects and initiatives. Applicants must have an internationally recognised track record of leading research in in vivo modelling and advanced mouse genetics, demonstrated by high-quality publications and significant funding success. For more junior candidates, an outstanding track record in cancer research, coupled with a compelling research vision leveraging advanced genetic mouse models and clear potential to secure competitive external funding, is essential. As part of your online application you will be required to upload your full CV which will pre-populate your application form, you will also be asked to attach the following documents and failure to do so will mean your application cannot be considered on this occasion: Lists of major publications, achievements, research grants, distinctions. A PDF of a maximum of five key publications, or other research outputs (e.g. patents) that best demonstrate previous productivity You must also complete the personal statement section of the application form in the format of a covering letter including the names and contact details of three academic referees Department/Directorate Information: The ICR is one of the world’s most influential cancer research institutions, with an outstanding track record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. In addition to being one of the UK’s leading higher education institutions for research quality and impact, the ICR is consistently ranked among the world’s most successful for industry collaboration. As a member institution of the University of London, we also provide postgraduate higher education of international distinction. One of the ICR’s key research strategies is to defeat cancer by viewing it as a dynamic ecosystem. We aim to solidify our expertise in state-of-the-art in vivo cancer models to probe these complex cancer ecosystems, discover their underlying biology, and identify new therapeutic targets. The postholder will significantly contribute to driving these strategic priorities. We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. If you would like to informally discuss this position, please contact Professor Kamil R. Kranc ([email protected]), Director of the Centre for In Vivo Modelling, or Professor Chris Jones ([email protected]), Head of the Division of Cancer Biology at the ICR.
Director of Estates and Facilities
The Role We are looking for an exceptional leader to join the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) as Director of Estates and Facilities. This is a pivotal role, responsible for shaping and delivering a world-class environment that empowers our staff and students to achieve their organisational and personal goals. Through visionary leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement, you will ensure our services are not only effective but truly outstanding. Key Responsibilities Inspire and develop high-performing teams across Estates Services, Facilities Services and HSEQ ensuring the directorate’s objectives to support the ICR’s mission are achieved - enabling world‑class science through high‑performing infrastructure and services. Lead the creation and implementation of strategies, operating plans, and budgets across all functional areas, aligning with the ICR’s strategic priorities. Embed a culture of excellence and continuous improvement across all areas of service provision. About You A proven senior leader, capable of building effective teams and delivering integrated solutions to complex challenges. With strong influencing skills and the ability to communicate with impact, you will inspire confidence through your personal credibility. Experience operating at senior manager or director level in at least one of the functional areas covered by this role is essential. About the Directorate The Directorate brings together a wide range of professional services functions, including Building & Maintenance, Planning & Development, Site Management and Facilities, and Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ). Further Information We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information about this role.
Employee Story
Dr Fatemeh Ahmadi Moughari is a bioinformatician working in the Functional Genomics Team, led by Rachael Natrajan, and the Bioinformatics Team, led by Syed Haider. She joined the ICR from her home country of Iran where she completed her PhD in anti-cancer drug response at Shahid Beheshti University.
"I really enjoy the multidisciplinary atmosphere here and it’s the thing that stood out when I first joined the ICR."
Industrial partnership opportunities with this group
Opportunity: A potent, orally bioavailable clinical-stage inhibitor of MPS1 with potential as a treatment for a range of cancer types including triple negative breast cancer
Commissioner: Swen Hoelder