Marie Boyd

Dr. Marie Boyd is a Reader at the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), part of the Faculty of Science, University of Strathclyde. She leads a dynamic research group focused on translational cancer biology, with a strong emphasis on developing novel radiotherapeutic strategies and combination therapies. Her work bridges molecular biology, bionanotechnology, and clinical translation.

• PhD in Evaluation of Screening Strategies for Molecular Pathologies, University of Glasgow (1995)
• Former Cancer Research UK Senior Cancer Research Fellow (2005)
• Joined SIPBS in 2009 as a SULSA Reader in Translational Biology

Dr. Boyd's research centers on targeted radionuclide therapy, where radioactive molecules are delivered specifically to tumor cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Her group investigates the cellular response to radiation, combining radiotherapy with repurposed and novel drugs, and developing gene therapy platforms—particularly for glioblastoma. She also explores nanoparticle-based delivery systems and uses multi-omics and systems biology to inform precision cancer treatment.

Her recent publications reflect a strong focus on in vivo tumor models, SERS-based imaging, and combination therapies for pancreatic, breast, and brain cancers. These works demonstrate a consistent trend toward translational innovation, leveraging advanced technologies for clinical impact.

Scientific awards and recognitions include:

• British Association for Cancer Research (BACR)/AstraZeneca Young Scientist Award (2002)
• Cancer Research UK Senior Cancer Research Fellowship (2005)
• Teaching Excellence Award (2018)
• Winner, Dragons Den event at Research Day (2011, 2012)
• NCRI Radiation Research Award (2009)
• Invited Trustee, LH Gray Trust Scientific Advisory Committee (2008)
• Secretary, Association for Radiation Research (2006)

Dr. Boyd actively supervises research students and leads externally funded projects, including collaborations with the Medicines Discovery Catapult and participation in the Children’s Brain Tumour Drug Discovery Consortium. She is also the Course Director of the MSc in Cancer Therapies, a program integrating translational research, drug discovery, and business. Her lab is equipped with advanced tools such as cell counters and bottle rollers, supporting high-impact research. She regularly engages in public outreach, including the Glasgow Science Festival, and hosts international visitors and academic partners.