Profile

Molly Endicott
PhD Student
RILD Building
University of Exeter Medical School, RILD Building, RD&E Hospital Wonford, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK
Overview
Molly is a second year PhD student within the Cancer Genomics group under the supervision of Professor Chrissie Thirlwell and Dr Amy Webster. Molly’s project is currently investigating the impact of diabetes on cancer biology.
Prior to beginning her PhD, Molly’s undergraduate studies in Biomedical Science taught her countless laboratory techniques along with a sound understanding of human disease. During Molly’s undergraduate degree, she completed a placement year in the department of Physiology and Biophysics at Virginia Commonwealth University in the United States which sparked her passion for research and led to her first publication. Following her placement year, Molly’s dissertation project investigated the effects of amino acid restriction in a leukemic cell line which highlighted her interest in novel therapeutics and a need for a personalised approach to cancer treatment. Molly went on to win The Chris Hunter Memorial Prize Project Report for the best research project and has since co-authored a review paper around her dissertation subject.
Qualifications
- BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (IBMS Accredited) from the University of the West of England, 2016 - 2020.
Research
Research interests
Molly’s research interests are primarily in cancer biology and personalised medicine, both of which are brought together in her PhD project. Molly hopes her research will contribute to improving patient outcomes in a step towards precision medicine.
Molly has a particular interest in making science more accessible to everyone. Molly hopes that through education and the communication of her research that she will be able to support the wider public in understanding and digesting some of the complexities that surround cancer research.
Research projects
- Investigation into the impact of diabetes on cancer biology
The project aims to investigate alterations in the genetic sequence and epigenome of tumours from individuals with type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. The project also gives the opportunity to link with real world clinical data through the Genomics England Clinical Interpretation Partnerships (GeCIPs) and the Genomic Laboratory Hubs, in partnership with the NHS.
External Engagement and Impact
Awards
- The Chris Hunter Memorial Prize Project Report
Awarded by the University of the West of England for recognition in completing the best research project report – 2020.