Impact of radionuclides on cellular senescence in cardiovascular cells

Funded PhD studentship in the School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences starting 1 October 2026. This project aims to study how radioactive particles used in novel radiotherapies affect endothelial cells from the heart. Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks and strokes, is the leading cause of death worldwide. It usually develops because of fatty plaques building up inside arteries. This process begins when endothelial cells, which is the thin layer of cells lining blood vessels, become damaged or inflamed. Recent research suggests that radiation from medical or environmental exposure may cause similar damage. Radiation can push cells into a state called senescence, where they stop dividing but release inflammatory signals that worsen atherosclerosis. This project will investigate how radiation-induced senescence and changes in cell energy production might increase risk of cardiovascular disease.