Modular phage-based nanocarriers for radioligand therapy

This PhD project aims to develop modular bacteriophage-based nanocarriers for targeted radioligand therapy (RLT), which constitutes a cornerstone of modern precision oncology, employing ionizing radiation emitted from radionuclide decay to selectively damage tumor cell DNA and achieve cytotoxic eradication. Cancer remains a global health challenge and currently available delivery systems often suffer from limited specificity and off-target toxicity. Engineered bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, offer unique advantages for drug and radionuclide delivery due to their biocompatibility, structural regularity and capacity for precise genetic modification. By integrating tumor-targeting ligands, radiometal chelators and bio-orthogonal functional groups, phages can be transformed into modular, programmable carriers for radiotherapeutic payloads. The project combines modern genetic engineering, chemical bioconjugation and radiochemistry tools to rigorously evaluate the therapeutic potential of phage-based vectors. Over the four-year timeline, the research will advance from molecular design and phage production to preclinical validation in relevant tumor models. The work will accelerate the development and availability of life-saving nuclear therapies and will contribute to driving cancer research and care forward in a powerful way.