PhD Studentship Opportunity: Blade spray mass spectrometry for characterisation and quantification of mutagenic impurities in pharmaceutical reaction mixtures

Blade spray mass spectrometry is a new and exciting development to characterise molecules rapidly, and accurately, at very low (sub parts per billion) levels in complex matrices. Working with AstraZeneca and the Community for Analytical Measurement Science this project will push the limits of detection of analytical science to produce targeted and untargeted processes to detect mutagenic impurities in reaction mixtures and other realistic scenarios. 

This project will work with mass spectrometry manufactures and the blade spray developers to maximise the efficiency of the process which would be equally applicable to scenarios in environmental safety and forensic analysis. We will use a range of mass spectrometers to determine the optimum configuration and develop purpose designed interfaces to maximise throughput, ease of use, and anti-contamination. Understanding the processes of pre-concentration, sample clean-up and ionisation will be key to developing highly sensitive analytical tools which could have significant impact in the development of next generation pharmaceutical products.

Supervisors: Dr Patrick Sears, Dr Catia Costa.

This project is open to UK students starting in October 2022.

Entry requirements

2:1 or higher in BSc or equivalent Masters level qualification.

English language requirements: IELTS minimum 7.0 overall with 6.5 in Writing (or equivalent).

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via the Chemistry PhD programme page on the "Apply" tab.

Please state clearly the studentship project that you would like to apply for and the name of your intended supervisor.