Funded PhD: Lung cancer detection and monitoring using exhaled breath condensate

• Principal investigator(s) Dr Sinead Toomey, Prof. Bryan Hennessy
• Research theme Cancer

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death, largely because it is often detected too late or is difficult to monitor accurately over time. Current approaches, such as imaging scans, can sometimes miss early disease or produce unclear results, making it challenging to distinguish between cancer and non-cancer changes. Therefore, there is a clear need for new, simple, and reliable ways to detect and track lung cancer using minimally invasive methods.

This project will explore an innovative approach known as 'liquid biopsy', which involves analysing tiny fragments of DNA released by cells into the body. These DNA fragments can be found not only in blood, but also in samples collected non-invasively, such as exhaled breath condensate (EBC). By studying these signals, the project aims to better understand how they reflect the presence of cancer and whether they can be used to improve detection and monitoring.

The project seeks to contribute to more personalised and less invasive healthcare strategies.

This will be a translational research project involving molecular biology and next generation sequencing, multi-omic data integration, machine learning approaches and experimental laboratory models and will involve collaboration with scientists, clinicians and bioinformaticians.

The key objectives of the project are:

• To identify and characterise DNA-based biomarkers from minimally invasive samples that may indicate the presence of lung cancer.
• To compare signals across different biological sources to better understand their origin and clinical relevance.
• To develop computational models that improve the accuracy of cancer detection and monitoring.
• To investigate the biological mechanisms underlying the release and composition of these DNA fragments.

This PhD project is fully funded as part of the Precision Oncology Ireland (POI) consortium. POI is a pioneering Irish consortium that brings together Irish universities, cancer charities, industry partners and healthcare providers to advance personalised cancer treatment. POI is working to improve diagnostics, reduce unnecessary treatments, and accelerate the development of targeted cancer therapies. 

Tenure: Four years

Start date: October 2026

Specification

Minimum requirements

• The successful applicant will have a degree (honours bachelors or masters) in a biological sciences subject, preferably cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, pharmacology or physiology.
• A strong interest in cancer research, personalised medicine, or biomarker discovery.
• Curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn new skills.
• Good organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Desirable candidate specifications

• Some exposure to laboratory techniques such as sample processing, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, or cell culture.
• Familiarity with data analysis or computational tools (e.g. Excel, R, Python).
• Experience working on a research project (e.g. undergraduate thesis).

Application process

Please apply for the research project through the link below.

Applications must include:

• A completed application form
• English language requirements