Topic details

Topic	Research on targeted radiomodulators and the cellular response to radiation
Supervisor	Miroslav Vetrík, Ph.D.
Consultant	Prof. Mgr. Martin Hruby, DSc
Department	Supramolecular Polymer Systems
Description	The aim of this Ph.D. project is to develop a new generation of radiosensitizers and radioprotectants (targeted polymer conjugates as well as small molecules) with applications in modern oncology and in extreme conditions, such as interplanetary expeditions. The student will address a complex, interdisciplinary topic at the interface of organic/polymer chemistry and tumor biology. The project is best suited for candidates interested in organic/polymer synthesis who are not afraid to cross into biology, who have strong analytical thinking skills, and who are eager to learn modern tissue-culture techniques. Synthesis and design: Preparation of new bioactive compounds and polymer carriers, optimization of structure–activity relationships (SAR), and advanced characterization (NMR, LC–MS/HPLC). Radiobiology and 3D models: Testing of compounds in relevant models, with an emphasis on 3D tumor spheroids that mimic the real tumor microenvironment, including hypoxia and nutrient gradients. Mechanistic studies: Quantitative assessment of viability, visualization of compound penetration and cell death using confocal microscopy, and analysis of key pathways (DNA repair, senescence, mitochondrial stress).
Universities	Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague Faculty of Science, Charles University Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, Charles University Faculty of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague