MB-PhD Summer Placement Project Outline

This placement aims to give the student first-hand insight into the integration of clinical surveillance with laboratory-based early detection research within a hereditary cancer setting. The project will focus on understanding how individuals with inherited cancer predisposition are monitored, how biological samples are collected and processed, and how emerging early detection technologies can be translated into clinical care. 

The student will gain exposure to the pathways by which clinical genetic information informs research questions, sample handling, and downstream molecular analysis, particularly sequencing-based approaches. A key aim is to develop an appreciation of multidisciplinary “team science”, bringing together clinicians, laboratory scientists, and bioinformaticians to address challenges in cancer prevention and early diagnosis. 

The placement will be primarily in‑person, based within the Manchester research and clinical facilities, to allow close interaction with laboratory activities and the clinical research team. Some aspects, such as data discussion or background reading, may be undertaken in a hybrid manner where appropriate. Overall, the project is designed to provide an immersive and supportive research experience within a real-world hereditary cancer programme.

Key activities

• Preparing and handling biological samples in the wet laboratory, including sample sorting and processing 

• Assisting with sample preparation for sequencing and related molecular analyses 

• Learning laboratory workflows relevant to early cancer detection research 

• Linking laboratory findings with relevant clinical and genetic information 

• Using basic clinical knowledge to understand hereditary cancer pathways and surveillance strategies 

• Interacting with the wider multidisciplinary research team, including clinicians, scientists, and research staff 

• Attending team meetings and contributing to discussions around research progress and integration of clinical data 

• Maintaining accurate records and following laboratory and governance protocols 

Supervisor style

Emma Woodward is a Consultant Clinical Geneticist and research lead in hereditary cancer predisposition. Emma has supervised numerous clinical PhD students and provides a supportive environment that encourages independence. Her approach emphasises strong integration between clinical practice and scientific research, fostering a collaborative culture. Having completed an MB PhD programme herself and continued a combined career, she understands the challenges and pleasure to be learned from MB PhD and is still in very close touch with her PhD supervisor.  We foster a Team Science approach with clinicians, research practitioners, wet lab basic scientists, bioinformaticians, and operations experts.