IHW4 - The synthesis of novel anti‐inflammatory compounds and the study into their protective effects on DNA damage

There has been strong evidence to support the role of oxidative stress in the development of many illnesses and chronic inflammation including diabetes complications. Excess accumulation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) can result from defects in ROS scavenging and is believed to have an impact on cellular aging and the process of senescence. Natural products such as Resveratrol and Vanillin are phenol molecules well known for their anti‐oxidant properties. In particular Resveratrol has previously gained considerable attention because of its beneficial effects as a cardioprotective, cancer chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent. As for Vanillin, it is widely used in foods and beverages and recently it was shown that Vanillin exhibited stronger antioxidant activity than ascorbic acid. In this project novel target molecules mimicking Resveratrol and Vanillin will be designed and synthesised with enhanced antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. This project is multidisciplinary and therefore the successful student will have the privilege to be exposed to organic synthetic chemistry, biochemistry and cell biology with strong application to the biomedical sciences. The candidate is expected to have some previous experience of organic synthesis and a keen interest to learn molecular and cellular biology techniques.

Candidates should be highly motivated with a strong commitment to academic research. A First Class, or a 2.1 Honours Degree (or equivalent) or a Masters Qualification in a relevant discipline is required. Relevant professional experience will also be considered. Each studentship provides full university fees for UK/EU applicants and a tax-free maintenance allowance of £13,590 per annum for 3 years (UK Research Council Rates). The studentship is available to start in October 2012. Interviews will be held on the 7th / 8th June 2012. Further details can be obtained at http://www.rgu.ac.uk/research/graduate-schools/applying-for-a-research-degree/funded-studentship-opportunities.