Professor Nomikou’s current research focuses on the development of translational drug delivery approaches based on formulations/carriers that are responsive to different forms of energy (electromagnetic fields, ultrasound), as well as responsive to the cancerous microenvironment. Her recently published and current funded research has demonstrated the potential of site-specific and minimally-invasive treatments based on low-intensity ultrasound and light, named as sonodynamic and photodynamic/photothermal therapy, respectively.  The potential of these therapeutic approaches to efficiently manage aggressive and advanced-stage cancers has been strongly augmented by novel therapeutic formulations that respond to either externally-applied or tumour-specific stimuli.  Professor Nomikou’s team aims to optimize these therapeutic modalities using nanotechnology for maximizing their potential in the clinic. Her research has been awarded funding from the UK Research Councils (EPSRC, MRC), the Royal Society, as well as UK-based cancer charities (e.g. Bowel& Cancer Research). Her research has also been supported with private donations. She is the Group Lead of Responsive Oncotherapeutics at UCL.

PhD opportunities on one of the following topics:

a. Stimulus-responsive therapeutic formulations for cancer treatment and drug delivery

b. Development and characterization of therapeutic formulations for cancer sonodynamic therapy

c. Exploitation of the tumour microenvironment in therapy

d. Combined intraoperative NIR imaging and treatment for cancer