A systematic screening tool for nanocarrier design and efficient drug delivery against biological barriers.

Encapsulation of APIs in a liposome can dramatically alter the distribution by controlling the release to normal tissue while facilitating the accumulation to the site of inflammation. In the circulation and tissue, the release mechanism of the encapsulated payloads is often critical to the safety and efficacy of the treatment. While significant progress has been made to foster such drug delivery system, the lack of a systematic approach to the design of liposomes has partly hindered the wide clinical success. For example, the variables of the nanocarrier, e.g., phospholipid type, composition, size, and ionic strength, and the complexity and heterogeneity of the microenvironment at the target still present significant challenges and opportunities in this field. 

In this work, we are proposing a systematic approach to screen the lipids for the formulation of nanocarriers that are capable of delivery enhanced penetrations against biological barriers. 

Applicants should have a 1st or 2.1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. Relevant subjects include Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, Biological/Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related discipline. Students with a 2.2 honours degree and a Master’s degree may also be considered. The School reserves the right to shortlist for interview only those applicants who have demonstrated high academic attainment to date. 

*Due to the highly interdisciplinary nature of this project, candidates with a Master degree are desired. International applicants are welcome, and supports for external funding are available. 

Postgraduate Research applicants must have applied to Queen’s via the Direct Applications Portal. 

https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/user/u_login.php

http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/PostgraduatePositions/  

http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofPharmacy/Research/