Martin Fellermeyer

My research interest is in translational cancer immunology with a focus on antibody therapeutics. In my PhD project I try to improve on current clinically used drugs like Nivolumab (PD-1 blocker) through utilising two approaches:

1. New combinations: Using different in vivo models, I'm testing new antibodies that can be used in combination with current PD-1 blockers in order to improve efficacy.
2. Re-engineering: I'm creating new forms of antibodies, that are engineered in a way that will improve their blocking efficacy. All antibodies are carefully designed, purified and tested using in vitro and in vivo models.

I completed my BSc in Molecular Biomedicine at the University of Bonn (Germany) focusing on testicular germ cell tumours in the group of Prof. Hubert Schorle. Subsequently, I took a gap year to get more experience in academic research (Greehey Children's Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio) as well as in the pharmaceutical industry (Department of Immuno-Oncology, Bayer AG). In October 2017 I moved to Oxford to pursue an MSc by Research in Oncology in the group of Prof. Sarah Blagden investigating RNA binding proteins in cancer. Following a short internship in consulting at Merck KGaA, I joined the Davis lab in April 2019 to start working on my PhD. I'm funded by the Radcliffe Department of Medicine and Somerville College.

Since Summer 2019 I'm an active peer supporter in RDM & Somerville college as well as part of the WIMM Graduate Student Association (WGSA). In 2020 I joined a new university-wide mental health initiative called 'Oxford University Coffee Ambassadors', which provides peer support to students & staff throughout the year.