Interview with Rupen Hargreaves
Rupen discusses his project and benefits he has drawn from his experience so far as an Oxford-BMS Fellow.
What is your research background?
I am a haematology registrar interested in the molecular mechanisms underpinning myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), a group of chronic myeloid disorders. In particular, I’m intrigued by the association of MPNs with both arterial and venous thrombosis, a common cause of morbidity and mortality amongst these patients.
Through two laboratory research projects whilst at medical school, with Prof Norbury at the Dunn School of Pathology in Oxford and Prof Hart and Dr Clark at the ANZAC Research Institute in Sydney, I developed a broad laboratory skillset enabling me to work with DNA, RNA, proteins and cells.
Through my clinical training I have worked on a variety of clinical trials in haematology. I have conducted and published clinical research into unclassified MPNs, a poorly-characterised subgroup of MPNs, and have analysed the UK MASCOT national registry of patients with MPN and splanchnic vein thrombosis, which I presented at the EHA Annual Congress 2022.
What are you researching now?
I am based at the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine in the Haematopoietic Stem Cell Biology group and am supervised by Associate Professor Susie Shapiro with Professor Adam Mead as my co-supervisor.
My DPhil project started in February 2023 and investigates the link between clonal haematopoiesis, myeloproliferative disorders and thrombosis, a novel and expanding field of inter-disciplinary research. I will use a variety of molecular, cellular and imaging techniques to study patients with ischaemic heart disease, venous thrombosis and MPNs.
What has your experience of this Fellowship been like?
I have received lots of encouragement and support from BMS since I have started. The fellowship nurtures a collaborative and educational relationship between academia and industry and I am able to draw on experience and expertise from both sides.
What are your aspirations for the future of this research?
I have seen first-hand the life-changing impact that thrombosis can have in patients with MPN. I hope to contribute to a better understanding of the disease mechanisms through my own work and through collaboration with industry and other specialties, paving the way for future clinical studies, ultimately aiming to positively impact the lives of these patients.