Brynn Mackie
Mathematical Modelling of T Cells as a Treatment For Cancer
T cells are a type of immune cell that have the potential to kill cancer cells. In this project, we will work on creating a mathematical representation of an exciting new cancer therapy. This therapy activates T cells outside the body using scaffolds of microscopic rods. Once activated, these T cells are then injected back into the body and can kill cancer cells. To capture this new cancer treatment, we’ll be creating a mathematical model known as an agent-based model, where we will capture the movement of T cells around the rods. We’ll be using PhysiCell, an open-source agent-based platform. Agent-based models are a type of stochastic mathematical model where cells are represented as agents and their movement is modelled in 2- and 3-dimensions. This project will help us understand how T cells can be activated to improve their cancer-killing properties. This will be a cross-institutional collaboration with Professor Paul Macklin, from Indiana University, USA. From this, we will have animations showing T cell movement in 2-dimensions that can help experimentalists visualise this novel cancer therapy. (Taken from QUT VRES Website – https://www.qut.edu.au/research/study-with-us/vacation-research-experience-scheme-student-topics/vres/mathematical-modelling-of-t-cells-as-a-treatment-for-cancer )
Brynn Mackie
Queensland University of Technology
Brynn Mackie is an undergraduate student at the Queensland University of Technology, studying a Bachelor of Mathematics (Applied and Computational Mathematics)/ Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Cell and Molecular Biotechnology). She plans to use her unique double degree to mathematically understand biological systems. Currently, her main interest is in mathematical oncology. She aims to complete postgraduate research in this field once completing her undergraduate. Outside of her studies, Brynn is active in the university community as 2025 President of the QUT Women in Maths Club. She also enjoys spending time outside, frequenting local parks for bird watching, or nearby beaches for a swim.
