Dr Ruth Gyereh

I am a Lecturer in Biomedical Science at London South Bank University (LSBU). My academic and research interests centre on blood cancers, particularly leukaemia, with a focus on developing novel bioactive peptides as potential anti-leukemic therapies. My research explores mechanisms of action, immune modulation, and therapeutic synergy with conventional chemotherapeutics, with the long-term aim of advancing these findings toward clinical application.

Alongside my teaching responsibilities, I am actively involved in mentoring, academic leadership, and public engagement. As an HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientist with over eight years of clinical laboratory experience, I bring a strong professional and translational perspective to my work. I am also a Fellow of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), a distinction that enhances my ability to contribute to policy development, professional mentorship, and scientific leadership.

In addition to supervising undergraduate research projects, I serve as an independent PhD examiner and panel chair, contributing to doctoral student assessment and progression. I am also an abstract reviewer for the British Society for Haematology (BSH) and European Haematology Association (EHA) Young Researcher Conference (2025).

Beyond academia, I am committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), leading initiatives that support Black students and early-career researchers in biomedical science. This includes organising and hosting a national conference, "Empowering the Black Biomedical Scientists of Tomorrow" which has received significant institutional support and funding to be hosted at LSBU in March 2025.

I am engaged in public speaking via conferences, panel discussions, and STEM outreach, having delivered guest lectures and seminars on my research at various platforms. My broader contributions extend to scientific dissemination, networking, and policy engagement, ensuring meaningful impact both within and beyond the academic community.

My research focuses on finding alternative ways to treat blood cancers, particularly leukaemia, by exploring new and innovative therapies. I am especially interested in developing treatments that specifically target cancer cells while minimising harm to healthy cells.

One of my key areas of study is a novel bioactive peptide called QUB-2392, which has shown promising potential in fighting leukaemia. My research has demonstrated that this peptide can help stop cancer cells from growing and even trigger their self-destruction. Additionally, it may help the body’s immune system recognise and attack cancer cells more effectively.

To improve treatment outcomes, I am also investigating how QUB-2392 can work in combination with existing chemotherapy drugs, making them more effective while potentially reducing side effects. My goal is to further test this peptide in laboratory and animal studies, with the hope of one day advancing it to clinical trials for use in patients.

Beyond cancer research, I have a strong interest in blood disorders and transfusion science, particularly how we can improve diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies for people with blood-related conditions.

Through my work, I aim to contribute to the development of safer, more effective cancer treatments and improve outcomes for patients with leukaemia and other blood disorders.

Academic Contributions & Dissemination

As an early-career researcher, I have presented my work at national and international conferences, symposiums, and seminars. I am currently preparing manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Human Haematology & Clinical Immunology, Clinical Biochemistry & Blood Transfusion,  Cancer Biology & Therapy,  and Anatomy & Physiology

My research focuses on blood cancers, particularly leukaemia, with an emphasis on developing novel bioactive peptides as potential targeted therapies. My work explores the anti-leukemic properties of QUB-2392, a novel bioactive peptide, investigating its mechanisms of action, including apoptosis induction, immune modulation, DNA repair pathways, and therapeutic synergy with chemotherapeutic agents. My long-term goal is to advance this research towards preclinical and clinical evaluation, contributing to the development of more effective treatments for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

I am currently awaiting a response regarding a £30,000 grant application from Blood Cancer UK for a pilot innovative research project. Additionally, I intend to apply for other funding opportunities, including the Wellcome Trust early career researcher grant, which offers up to £400,000 over a three to five-year period.

Module Leadership and Teaching Management
As the Module Lead for Haematology & Blood Transfusion, Cancer Biology & Therapy (2023/24 cohort), and Anatomy & Physiology (2024/25 cohort), I oversee the management and delivery of several modules, ensuring quality education and positive student outcomes. I have successfully led both first- and second-semester modules, with constructive feedback and an encouraging success rate. In addition to my leadership roles, I contribute to the teaching of other subjects, including Anatomy & Physiology, and support laboratory-based teaching through experiment preparation, practical session delivery, and lab management. I organise practical sessions and offer additional catch-up and mop-up labs to ensure all students gain vital hands-on experience for future employment in biomedical science.

Student Tutoring, Pastoral Support, and Academic Mentorship
I serve as a personal tutor, providing mentorship to 42 students, offering guidance on academic, personal, and career matters. Additionally, I support students in their applications for postgraduate studies, job opportunities, and professional placements by writing recommendation letters. I am also involved in the Black in Cancer Mentorship Programme, where I guide and support Black students and early-career professionals in biomedical science and cancer research. My regular check-ins ensure that students have the necessary support to navigate their academic and personal development.

Project Supervision and Student Mentorship
I have supervised and mentored students through lab-based research projects, with three Level 6 students successfully completing projects focused on cancer and alternative treatments. For the 2024/25 cohort, I am overseeing 12 Level 5 students and five Level 6 students conducting research on blood cancers and novel therapies. I balance my teaching responsibilities with project supervision, providing hands-on guidance to help students develop their research skills.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Leadership – Conference Organisation
As the EDI representative for the Biomedical Science Department at LSBU, I led three Black Level 6 students to the annual "Black in Biomedical Science" undergraduate conference in March 2024, in collaboration with Cambridge University and the BME Early Career Research Network. Building on this experience, I am organising a similar event at LSBU on 19th March 2025, where I will serve as the keynote speaker. The conference, themed "Empowering the Black Biomedical Scientists of Tomorrow," has attracted 220 registered participants and secured £5,000 in funding from the School of Applied Sciences to support catering costs. This initiative highlights my commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion within biomedical science.

Biomedical Science Day – Event Organisation and Funding
I successfully secured a £500 grant from the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) to organise the Biomedical Science Day on 6th June 2024. The event aimed to raise awareness of biomedical science among students aged 13-15 from local college communities. Participants (27) engaged in interactive sessions and laboratory demonstrations, including ABO blood grouping, Full Blood Count analysis, and microscopic examination of blood cells. The event also featured tours of the biomedical and forensic science labs, providing valuable hands-on experience with advanced equipment and this was featured in the IBMS Biomedical Scientist Net, July. I plan to make this an annual event.

Abstract Reviewer – British Society for Haematology (BSH)
I am currently serving as a reviewer for the British Society for Haematology (BSH) and the European Haematology Association (EHA) Young Researcher Conference, scheduled for April 2025. In this role, I am tasked with reviewing 40 abstracts within a short timeframe, contributing to maintaining high academic standards in the field.

PhD Examination and Panel Membership
I have acted as an independent examiner and Chair of the Panel for PhD students during their RES3 reviews, overseeing successful progression and thesis submission.

Public Engagement

• Guest Speaker (January 2024) – Middlesex University, London: Delivered a seminar on the anti-leukemic activity of the novel bioactive peptide, QUB-2392, against human leukaemia cell lines using proteomics and gene profiling.
• Panellist (2024) – Middlesex University, London: Shared insights into my STEM journey and career pathways with postgraduate students, supporting their professional development and career progression in biomedical science.

Professional Memberships and Accreditation
I am a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)-registered Biomedical Scientist with over eight years of clinical laboratory experience. I am also a Fellow of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), which recognises my expertise and leadership within the field. As an IBMS Fellow, I am engaged in career advancement, professional recognition, and policy development, while also having access to continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities, specialist resources, and networking events.