PhD Studentship: Interlocked Oligonucleotides for Chemical Biology and Medicine

Background

Rotaxanes, molecules in which a linear component is trapped within a ring-shaped molecule like a bead on a thread, and catenanes, molecules formed of two rings threaded through one another like links in a chain, are the archetypal interlocked molecules. Holding the molecular components together like this changes their properties considerably and leads to new functions and applications. Indeed, nature has taken advantage of this approach to stabilise DNA in catenane structures and peptides as rotaxanes. Thanks to significant advances in the synthesis of interlocked molecules, there is increasing interest in their potential applications in chemical biology and medicine. 

The project

The successful candidate will join a vibrant, diverse group of researchers to apply our high-yielding methods for the synthesis of interlocked DNA to develop new DNA and RNA tools for chemical biology and ultimately medicine. The project lies at the interface of synthetic organic chemistry, and chemical biology/medicinal chemistry and would suit a candidate who is interested in addressing challenging problems by developing new reactions and concepts.

Training and mentoring

The successful candidate will receive training in advanced synthetic organic chemistry techniques, automated DNA synthesis, cell free protein expression and cell biology. They will gain extensive experience of a range of analytical techniques including advanced NMR, single crystal x-ray diffraction and HPLC analysis. They will be mentored by Professor Goldup to improve their scientific writing, presentation skills and ability to design and execute new scientific projects. Completing a PhD in the Goldup Group will prepare students for leadership roles in scientific research, as well as positions across the scientific sector more generally.

The Goldup Group

Research in the Goldup Group (https://golduplab.org/) at the University of Birmingham focusses on the synthesis, properties and applications of mechanically interlocked molecules such as rotaxanes and catenanes. This work takes place at the interface of organic synthetic and supramolecular chemistry and requires collaborations with a range of other disciplines from materials science to chemical biology.

Application process

Candidates should normally have, or expect to receive, a first or upper second (2.1) class Masters degree (or equivalent). Interested candidates should contact Professor Goldup (s.m.goldup@bham.ac.uk) by email in the first instance with a copy of their CV and a covering letter outlining their research interests. The School of Chemistry is keen to achieve a gender and diversity balance across the School and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The School holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, which recognises its work in promoting women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM) in higher education.

Funding notes:

This 3.5 year studentship includes a tax-free stipend and tuition fees at the standard UKRI rate (stipend was £19,237 academic year 2024-2025). We offer a fully-funded programme of integrated research and skills training. Support for conference attendance and research materials will be available. Please note that, due to funding restrictions, applicants not eligible for UK home fee status will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

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