From MSc Cancer student to Principal Investigator – BCI career stories
When Dr Alex Papachristodoulou joined our MSc cancer programme at Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London in 2012, he discovered his passion for cancer research and built the foundations for an academic career.
Upon graduating, he completed a PhD at the University of Zurich, Switzerland and postdoctoral studies at Columbia University in New York. Now, Alex is launching his own independent lab at Rutgers University in New Jersey, where he is investigating the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in prostate cancer. By understanding how genetic and metabolic factors affect prostate cancer and make some people more at risk of aggressive disease, he hopes to identify ways to more effectively personalise patients’ care to better tackle their unique disease.
We sat down with Alex to hear how his studies set him on the path to launching his own group, and what advice he has for students with similar ambitions.
How did your postgraduate studies help to launch your career?
After completing my bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology at the University of East Anglia, I came to the BCI to deepen my understanding of cancer. My time at the institute nurtured my passion for cancer research, and I realised that an academic career was the right and only choice for me. Studying a cancer MSc at the BCI offered a unique opportunity to explore the immense translational impact of basic cancer research in an environment that values and encourages curiosity.
But perhaps more important than the knowledge I gained in lectures were the interactions with my lecturers and the strong, long-term relationships I formed with my mentors. The amazing support and motivation I received from everyone at the BCI – both then and now – extends far beyond the degree and has empowered my career success.
What was your favourite part of your course at the BCI?
Having the opportunity to conduct a hands-on research project gave me my first real taste of bench-based cancer research and left me wanting more. My mentor, Professor Kebs Hodivala-Dilke, was so supportive that I was able to continue working on the project even after completing my thesis while I waited to start my PhD.
I also want to acknowledge the rest of the lab, with a special mention to Dr Louise Reynolds, for all their encouragement, understanding and supervision – they really exemplify the supportive environment of the institute.
BCI Cancer MSc Open Day
Wednesday 12th March 2025
Online or in-person
If you're considering a future in cancer research, our MSc Open Day is the perfect opportunity to explore what BCI has to offer.
Did any other mentors play a significant role in your journey?
In addition to Kebs and her lab, Professor Richard Grose was, and still is, a pivotal driver and supporter of my journey. His guidance ultimately led me to undertaking my PhD via an international programme in Switzerland. When you are new in a field, it's important to have great mentors whose excitement and passion for their work inspires you. To this day I still seek advice from mentors I met at BCI and always receive a helpful response.
What advice would you give to current and future students?
My advice is to ask questions and talk to your mentors—they’re there to help! BCI is full of people eager to support you. Most importantly, enjoy the experience and put yourself out there. No matter how daunting something seems, don’t overthink it—just go for it.
What impact do you hope to make in your field?
I’ve just launched my independent lab, which I aim to establish as a translational hub, bridging preclinical research with clinical applications. We’re focusing on mitochondrial dysfunction in prostate cancer to improve our understanding of tumour initiation, progression, and precision therapy. Ultimately, we hope to develop more effective strategies to enhance patient care.
Discover how you could launch your career at one of the UK's top cancer research institutes:
Category: General News, Interviews
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