PhD Studentship in the School of Chemistry - New methods for the construction of DNA encoded chemical libraries

Postgraduate Opportunities

Newcastle University

Reference code: CY024
Closing date: 28 February 2016
Supervisors:
Professor Michael Waring , School of Chemistry, Newcastle University
Dr Garry Pairaudeau (co-supervisor, AstraZeneca)
Sponsor: AstraZeneca
Duration of the award: Starting September 2016 for a duration of 4 years.
Person Specification
The successful candidate will have an excellent first degree in chemistry or a related subject (e.g. pharmacy). They will demonstrate strong theoretical and practical skills in organic chemistry. Previous experience of medicinal or biological chemistry is an advantage but not essential.
Project Description
DNA encoded chemical libraries offer great promise as new methods of finding leads in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology. This technology allows the facile screening of huge numbers (potentially billions) of chemical compounds against protein targets. Current methods are limited by the range of compatible chemistry and of synthetic sequences for library synthesis meaning that encoded libraries do not always contain compounds with lead-like properties.
This project will seek primarily to develop new chemical methodology for the synthesis of DNA encoded libraries of biologically small molecules. This methodology will then be used to construct libraries and validate their utility by screening against novel biological targets.
The studentship will provide a wealth of experience in medicinal chemistry design and organic synthesis along with the opportunity to interact with scientists at AstraZeneca actively engaged in lead generation projects. This would be ideal training for someone wishing to pursue a career in medicinal chemistry or chemical biology.

Funding information

Value:

100% tuition fees at the UK/EU rate plus an annual stipend at RCUK rate (£14,057 2015/16).

Funding applies to:

EU applicants (including UK)

Contacts and how to apply

Academic contact:

For further details, please email Professor Michael Waring: mike.waring@ncl.ac.uk

Administrative contact and how to apply:

The candidate must apply through the University’s online postgraduate application form selecting 'Master of Research/Doctor of Philosophy as the programme of study. However only mandatory fields need to be completed, you will need to include the following information:
- insert the programme code: 8100F in the programme of study section
- select ‘PhD School of Chemistry (full time) - Chemistry’ as the programme of study
- insert the studentship code CY024 in the studentship/partnership reference field
- No personal statement is required but please attach a covering letter, CV and (if English is not your first language) a copy of your English language qualifications. The covering letter must state the title and code of the studentship, and state how your interests and experience relate to the project.

Application deadline:

28 February 2016