Shervin Najafi

PhD in Molecular Biology with over four years of hands-on research experience in cancer biology, specialising in patient-derived cell culture models and functional assays. Proven expertise in RT-qPCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and cell viability analyses to investigate tumour biology and therapeutic response. Experienced in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to generate high-quality, reproducible data in fast-paced research environments. Driven to translate molecular findings into improved treatment strategies for aggressive cancers.

• Competence in Cellular and Molecular Biology: With over four years of hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, including established cancer cell lines, patient-derived glioblastoma cells, endothelial cells, and mature monocytes/macrophages. Skilled in applying molecular biology techniques such as RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RT-qPCR and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Protein detection assays: Quantitative and qualitative protein characterisation using Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and multiparametric flow cytometry.
• Microscopy and Imaging: Experienced in bright-field, EVOS Auto, fluorescence, and confocal microscopy. Proficient in immunofluorescence staining for cell surface and intracellular marker proteins
• Cell Viability Assays: Experienced in developing and conducting in vitro cell viability assays, including MTT and LDH assays, to assess cellular responses, using semi-automated liquid handling systems for plate preparation.

PhD Project: 

Title: “Expression of PMCA in Patient-Derived Glioblastoma Cultures.”

Led a PhD research project focusing on patient-derived glioblastoma cultures to investigate the impact of antiangiogenic therapy on Plasma Membrane Ca2+ ATPase (PMCA) expression. Conducted comprehensive molecular profiling at both RNA and protein levels to explore the molecular origins of patient-derived glioblastoma cells. Analysed alterations in PMCA expression between glioblastoma and normal cells, using RNA and protein analyses. Additionally, assessed the viability of patient-derived cells following treatment with Temozolomide and Sunitinib, and explored the effects of hypoxia and Sunitinib on PMCA expression., Techniques used in this project: Cell culture, RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, Western Blotting, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, agarose gel electrophoresis and MTT assay.

MSc project:

Title: “The cardioprotective effects of naringenin.”

The aim of this research was to test the cardioprotective effects of naringenin and discover the possible effects it may have on the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs)., Techniques used in this project: Cell culture, MTT and LDH assay.

BSc project: Title:

“Assessing mast cell degranulatory properties of anti-microbial Ser14 MitP analogues.”

The aim of this study was to test analogues of Mitoparan which were resistant to proteolytic degradation and did not cause mast cell to degranulate and were not cytotoxic to the host. Techniques used in this project: β-Hexosaminidase assay.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching movies and regularly go to the cinema with friends. Additionally, I am a passionate football fan, having taken coaching courses in 2017 to deepen my understanding of the sport and improve my leadership abilities.

Available upon request