22 April 2026

Former Clarendon Sixth Form College student is now renowned researcher in the field of biomedical sciences.

Dr Pantelis Nicola, a former A-level sciences student with the college, is now working as a clinical lecturer for The Christie Hospital, helping to lead ground breaking cancer and autoimmune disease research.

His first research paper, titled 'polyclonal selection of immune checkpoint mutations in thyroid autoimmunity' was recently published in the world renowned science journal, Nature.

Dr Nicola, who studied with the college from 2008, went on to complete a BSc in medical sciences with genetics and an MBBS in medicine at the prestigious University College London to qualify as a doctor, a masters of philosophy in biological science at the University of Cambridge and is currently completing a PHD there too.

His research, which was conducted in conjunction with the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Institute of Metabolic Science at the University of Cambridge focused on understanding how genetic mutations can, over time, lead to diseases that affect thousands each year and potentially, how they can be cured.

Ruth James, head of department for A-levels at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “To see one of our former students contributing to such pioneering research is both inspiring and affirming. His work on this extremely important and potentially lifesaving topic, highlights the impact that talented young scientists can have on major real world challenges. Our whole college community is extremely proud of what Dr Nicola has gone on to achieve.”

Dr Nicola, said: “Our study suggests that somatic mutations in immune cells may play an important role in autoimmune disease, an idea first proposed in the 1950s that we have lacked the techniques to investigate. Now the technology, which we developed in the last few years, we can study somatic mutations and explore their contribution to autoimmune diseases, not just cancer.”

To find out more about A-level courses at Clarendon Sixth Form College, visit the college website or call 0161 908 6600.