About the Project
Project Description
Applications are invited for a PhD position on the Development of purification and modification strategies of N-type glycopeptide and glycan moieties for use as nanoparticle activity enhancers to be carried out under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Spencer at Ludger Ltd, Oxford, UK with the PhD registered with Dr Marco Monopoli at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). The project will focus on the purification of N-glycopeptides and N-glycans from natural sources in up to gram quantities. These compounds will then be modified using enzymatic techniques to incorporate 2-3 and 2-6 sialic acid linkages, including both NeuAc and NeuGc forms with O-acetylation. Additionally, modification of branched glycans to incorporate antennary fucosylation such as the sialyl-Lewis-X moiety will also be explored.
The research project will enable the candidate to greatly develop their experience in the fields of glyco-production, chemoenzymatic modification of large molecules, and purification techniques. In addition, a small portion of the project will allow the candidate to gain introductory experience in surface chemistry and nanoparticle handling. During the PhD programme, the candidate will carry out secondments with academic partners.
European Training Network in H2020 ITN NanoCarb
This is one of 15 PhD positions (Early Stage Researchers [ESRs]) open in the recently granted Marie Curie European Training Network (MC-ETN) project NanoCarb - Glyco-Nanoparticles for Applications in Advanced Nanomedicine. NanoCarb is a multidisciplinary consortium including universities, research centres and SMEs with broad expertise ranging from nanotechnology, carbohydrate chemistry, glycoprofiling and in vitro/in vivo screening specialists.
The network will develop novel and well-characterised nanomaterials with synthetic and native glycans that will be used for therapeutics and guide development of new drug delivery applications. For further information on the project please go to www.nanocarb.eu
The successful candidate will benefit from an international scientific network of high-profile academic and industry partners offering state-of-the-art research facilities in nanotechnology, carbohydrate chemistry, glycoprofiling and in vitro/in vivo screening as well as career relevant training through research, courses, outreach activities, participation in seminar, and workshops. Each ESR will be supervised by an Industry-Academia supervisory team consisting of at least one supervisor from each sector. ESRs will receive an attractive salary in accordance with the MSCA regulations for Early Stage Researchers http://ec.europa.eu/research/mariecurieactions/.
Qualifications
• The ideal applicant will have a 1st Class Honours Bachelor’s degree or MSc degree (with minimum 2.1 honours from primary degree) in chemistry or biochemistry or a related discipline.
• Specific skills which would enhance a candidate’s application include experience in some of the following areas: glycobiology, glycochemistry, chemoenzymatic synthesis, purification techniques. Excellent written and oral communication skills are also desired. A ‘can do’ attitude in the laboratory is a must.
• For candidates who do not speak English as their first language, IELTS or equivalent English language test scores of at least 6.5 is required. Applicants who do not hold a valid English certificate at the time of the application, must indicate a clear plan with dates of how they seek to obtain the certificate.
Specific Eligibility Criteria valid at time of recruitment on the H2020 Marie Sklodowska Curie programme
• The applicants should be within the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of their research careers and have not been awarded a doctoral degree.
• Mobility rule: The applicants should not have resided or carried out main activity (studies, work, etc.) in the UK for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the recruitment date.
Application Process
Applicants must apply via email with the following documents.
• Up-to-date Curriculum vitae inclusive of contact details of previous supervisors (max. 3 pages).
• Cover letter stating your motivation and suitability for the position (max. 1 page).
• Names and contact details of three referees.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00 pm UK time on Thursday 13th December 2018. Applications are to be sent to Daniel Spencer at the following email address: [Email Address Removed]. All applications will be handled as confidential. By submitting an application, applicants consent to their application being shared with the other principle investigators of the NanoCarb consortium for the sole purpose of the candidate recruitment. Only short-listed applications will be acknowledged. The interview process will consist of a two stage online interview.
Funding Notes
Specific Eligibility Criteria valid at time of recruitment on the H2020 Marie Sklodowska Curie programme
• The applicants should be within the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of their research careers and have not been awarded a doctoral degree.
Funding Notes
Specific Eligibility Criteria valid at time of recruitment on the H2020 Marie Sklodowska Curie programme
• The applicants should be within the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of their research careers and have not been awarded a doctoral degree.
• Mobility rule: The applicants should not have resided or carried out main activity (studies, work, etc.) in the UK for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the recruitment date.
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