About the Project
A feature of tumours is immortality. This is achieved by overriding our natural ageing process. Our DNA has repeating units on the end that protect our DNA code, like the plastic ends of shoelaces, called telomeres. When cells grow and divide the DNA is incompletely copied, shortening the telomeres. As part of a normal ageing process, when the telomeres are shortened too far the DNA unravels, cells can no longer divide, and die. Cancer uses a complex of proteins called telomerase to add telomeres to the end of DNA, giving tumours immortality.
This project aims to use a new technique, developed in our lab, to design molecules which can control this protein complex. This chemical biology project will be interdisciplinary, involving training in the computational design and synthesis of peptides and small molecules, the analysis of compounds binding to proteins and their activity in cancer cells. Led by Dr Andrew Beekman and Professor Mark Searcey, there is an opportunity to learn medicinal chemistry, protein biophysics, cellular biology and structural biology, using facilities across the School of Pharmacy and Norwich Research Park.
You will have, or expect to obtain a first class, 2(i) or equivalent Honours degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy or related area.
Informal enquiries are welcomed: Dr Andrew Beekman ([Email Address Removed]) or Prof. Mark Searcey ([Email Address Removed]).
For more information on the supervisor for this project, please go here: https://people.uea.ac.uk/a_beekman
This is a PhD programme.
The start date is 1st October 2021.
The mode of study is full time.
The studentship length is 4 years.
About NRP DTP:
The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) is open to UK and international candidates for entry October 2021 and offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.
This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP programme. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on Thursday 7th January, Friday 8th January and Monday 11th January 2021.
Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/
Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background.
Funding Notes
This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) PhD studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend for each year of the studentship (2020/21 stipend rate: £15,285), and a Research Training Support Grant for each year of the studentship of £5,000 p.a..
At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or UK equivalence Master's degree. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).
References
References
1. Beekman, O’Connell & Howell, Angew. Chem. 2017, 56, 10446
2. Beekman, Searcey et al., Chem. Sci. 2019, 10, 4502
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