Single-Cell and Lineage-Tracing Dissection of Chemotherapy-Induced Resistance States in Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant bone tumour in children and adolescents, and relapse remains the leading cause of treatment failure.Increasing evidence suggests that chemotherapy reshapes tumour cell states, enriching rare drug-resistant subpopulations that later drive disease recurrence.

This project aims to identify and therapeutically target these relapse-initiating cell states using cutting-edge single-cell and spatial transcriptomic technologies. We will profile diagnostic, post-treatment, and relapsed osteosarcoma samples to define resistance-associated gene programs and their spatial niches.

In parallel, lineage-tracing approaches will track clonal evolution of tumour cells under chemotherapy to reveal dynamic resistance mechanisms. Key vulnerabilities will be functionally validated and tested in patient-derived models to develop rational combination therapies.

This work seeks to establish a precision framework for early relapse prediction and prevention, ultimately improving survival for children with osteosarcoma.

Eligibility

Domestic, International, PhD and Masters candidates

How to apply

Express your interest in this project by emailing A/Prof Belamy Cheung bcheung@ccia.unsw.edu.au . Include a copy of your CV and your academic transcript(s).

Further information on how to apply and scholarship deadlines can be found here HDR Application Process