Designed artificial metalloenzymes for late-stage diversification

In the Rhys lab we design and engineer peptides and proteins for new applications (www.rhyslab.com). For this PhD project we are looking to recruit a Welsh-speaking student who is interested in developing new enzymes to catalyse reactions that are difficult to achieve using synthetic chemistry. More specifically, we want to chemically modify small molecules with high precision (regioselectively), which will enable late-stage diversification of potential drug candidates.

We will achieve this by optimising natural and designed metalloenzymes that can catalyse CH activation reactions. It's an exciting time to research enzyme design because you will be joining a global community of scientists that is rapidly growing. During your PhD there will be opportunities for you to present your work at national and international conferences.

This project is ideally suited for anyone with a background in biochemistry/chemistry or similar subjects and is looking to expand and develop their skills further. It is a highly interdisciplinary project where you will have the opportunity to develop skills in synthetic chemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, structural biology, protein design and computational modelling. These are very desirable research skills that, upon completing your PhD, will make you suitable for a wide range of opportunities in academia or industry.

You will receive co-supervision from Prof. Simon Ward, who is a director of the Medicines Discovery Institute at Cardiff University and, a leading expert in developing new small-molecule therapies.

The Rhys lab is a supportive environment that cares about the development of its students and staff. We encourage you to apply regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation. We are open to anyone looking to contribute to making the lab a diverse, inclusive and friendly environment.

The project will be conducted and presented through the medium of Welsh. Therefore, the successful candidate must be a fluent Welsh speaker who is confident speaking and writing in Welsh. Those interested in applying are welcome to email me (Dr Rhys) to learn more about the project.

This scholarship is funded by the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol. The Coleg creates opportunities to train and study through the medium of the Welsh language by working with further education colleges, universities, apprenticeship providers and employers.

The Coleg’s aim is to build a Welsh and bilingual education and training system that is open to all, and to develop bilingual workforces.

The Ysgoloriaeth Ymchwil (Research Scholarship) scheme sponsors students to study towards a doctorate. The schemes aim is to promote and develop scholarship, research and publication through the medium of welsh, and to foster world-class researchers.

For further information about the Coleg’s work, please visit the website

https://colegcymraeg.ac.uk/myfyrwyr/astudio-ol-raddedig/ysgoloriaethau-ymchwil/

To read this advert in Welsh - Dylunio ensymau-metel artiffisial i gatalyddu adweithyddion amrywiaethau cam hwyr at Cardiff University on FindAPhD.com

Academic criteria

Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first-class degree or a good 2.1 in an appropriate Bachelor’s or Master’s level qualification (or their equivalent). 

Candidates are expected to have high-proficiency in the Welsh language.

English Language

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) English language requirements for postgraduate students - Study - Cardiff University

Supervisors

Dr Guto Rhys Dr Guto Rhys - People - Cardiff University

Professor Simon Ward Professor Simon Ward - People - Cardiff University

Start date 1st October 2024

Deadline - Friday 12th January 2024

All applications will be reviewed after this deadline. You will not hear from us until late January 2024

This is a competitively funded post between two projects. The best applicant from the two projects will be awarded the funding.

To apply please complete an online application, stating your supervisor’s name(s) Chemistry - Study - Cardiff University

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.