Research Assistant - Precision-Csf: Novel Diagnostic Assay Personalised CNS Therapy in Childhood Leukaemia

You will contribute to a project PRECISION-CSF: A Novel Diagnostic Assay for Personalised CNS Therapy in Childhood Leukaemia led by Prof Chris Halsey and funded by the Little Princess Trust.

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer, and many patients require chemotherapy administered directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to prevent disease recurrence within the brain and spinal cord. While this treatment is highly effective, it can also result in significant long‑term side effects, including difficulties with learning, memory, and cognitive development. To minimise these risks, clinicians need more accurate methods to determine the extent of leukaemia in the central nervous system and to monitor response to treatment, enabling therapy to be tailored more precisely to each patient.

Flow cytometry is increasingly used to detect very small numbers of leukaemia cells in CSF and offers substantially greater sensitivity than traditional microscopy. However, a major limitation is that leukaemia cells rapidly lose viability once CSF samples are collected. Delays in processing can therefore lead to underestimation of disease burden, reducing diagnostic accuracy and creating inconsistencies between centres.

Our research has identified the underlying cause of this problem. Unlike blood, CSF contains limited nutrients and antioxidants, leaving leukaemia cells exposed to metabolic and oxidative stress. We have shown that supplementing these essential protective factors can significantly prolong cell survival in laboratory settings.

This project aims to develop a novel stabilisation fluid that can be added to CSF samples immediately after collection, preserving leukaemia cells until analysis. We will optimise the formulation, assess its compatibility with flow cytometry, and validate its performance using patient samples.

The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to the formulation and submission of research publications and research proposals as well as help manage and direct this complex and challenging project as opportunities allow.