About the Molecular Imaging and Nanotherapeutics laboratory
The Molecular Imaging and Nanotherapeutics laboratory develops next-generation technologies to detect, target, and treat cardiovascular disease before irreversible damage occurs. We combine ultra-sensitive molecular imaging with precision nanomedicine, including first-in-class lipid nanoparticle platforms and mRNA therapeutics, to enable earlier diagnosis, safer targeted treatments, and disease-preventing vaccines. Our work bridges discovery science and clinical translation, turning high-resolution biological insight into therapies that change patient trajectories.
We operate at the interface of discovery science and clinical translation. By combining advanced imaging, rational nanoparticle design, and route-optimised drug delivery, we aim to shift cardiovascular care from late-stage intervention to early detection, targeted therapy, and disease prevention.
Our research capabilities
Our laboratory delivers end-to-end innovation, from molecular and nanoparticle design through to in vivo validation and translational application. Core capabilities include:
- Advanced functional and molecular imaging using ultrasound, MRI, PET, MicroCT, fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging to detect disease processes before irreversible tissue damage occurs.
- Precision-targeted therapeutics engineered for site-specific action with minimal systemic exposure.
- Design and characterisation and optimisation of lipid nanoparticles and nanocarriers to enable route-specific delivery of drugs and mRNA via intravenous, local, and non-invasive administration.
Why join our laboratory?
We provide a high-impact research environment for students and postdoctoral researchers who want to develop rare and in-demand expertise in molecular imaging, nanomedicine, and mRNA-based therapies for cardiovascular disease. Team members gain hands-on experience in nanoparticle engineering, advanced characterisation, and in vivo translational research, supported by access to cutting-edge imaging and analytical infrastructure.
Our close integration with clinicians and patients offers unique exposure to real-world clinical challenges, making this an ideal setting for scientists and physician-scientists seeking to bridge fundamental research and clinical impact.
Main research focus
Advancing functional and molecular imaging
Conventional clinical imaging often detects cardiovascular disease only after structural damage has occurred. Our research focuses on imaging functional and molecular changes that precede irreversible injury. By leveraging ultrasound, MRI, PET, MicroCT, fluorescence, and photoacoustic techniques, we generate sensitive biological readouts that enable earlier diagnosis, risk stratification, and personalised intervention strategies.
Targeted therapeutics for precision medicine
We design recombinant proteins and antibody-based fusion therapeutics that deliver drugs precisely to diseased tissue. This targeted approach maximises therapeutic efficacy while minimising off-target effects and systemic toxicity. By achieving potent, site-specific activity at low doses, our work supports safer prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular disease.
Innovations in drug and mRNA nanodelivery systems
A central focus of our laboratory is the rational design of lipid nanoparticles and nanocarriers for drug and mRNA delivery. We develop novel lipid compositions and particle architectures and apply advanced characterisation techniques, including electron scattering, to understand and control nanoparticle structure, stability, and cargo retention.
By tailoring nanoparticles for specific delivery routes, we optimise biodistribution, cellular uptake, and biological activity. This platform underpins our mRNA-based therapeutic and vaccine programs, including efforts to prevent heart attack and stroke by targeting key molecular drivers of disease before clinical symptoms emerge.
Theranostics — merging therapy and diagnostics
We develop theranostic systems that combine treatment and real-time diagnostic feedback within a single platform. These integrated approaches allow clinicians to deliver therapy while simultaneously monitoring biological response, enabling adaptive treatment strategies and improving precision, effectiveness, and safety in cardiovascular care.