Supervisory Team: Eugen Stulz (SoC), Tilman Sanchez-Elsner (SoM)
Project description
We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic PhD student as part of the H2020 MSCA Training Network “Oligonucleotides for Medical Applications - OLIGOMED”. You will join an international cohort of 15 ESR PhD student fellows researching key topics in the use of synthetic oligonucleotides (ONs) for medical applications, starting in June 2021.
The use of synthetic oligonucleotides (ONs, short DNA or RNA) in the treatment of genetic diseases is a rapidly growing field, and the most promising alternative to gene therapy using small molecules. You will be developing specific modified ONs for cancer treatment.
Translation of cellular mRNAs via initiation at internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs) has received increased attention in recent years due to its emerging significance for many physiological and pathological stress conditions in eukaryotic cells. The aim of this PhD project will be to develop ONs for highly selective targeting of the cMYC mRNA IRES, thereby avoiding potential confounding effects of broader translational inhibition. We will also develop techniques for high-resolution characterisation of the structure of IRES sequences.
For this project, you will be enthusiastic to work in a multidisciplinary environment, apply and enhance what you have learned during your Masters degree in Chemistry, Chemical Biology or a related field, and contribute to a greater pan-European project.
You will benefit from a PhD project at the forefront of research, aimed at tackling a pressing need of society. You will have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of both scientific and transferable skills training. You will also be willing to travel across Europe for network wide training events, but most importantly for secondments (two months each) nationally and abroad. This will include an industrial placement at BioVectis in Warsaw (Poland), and an academic placement in Bordeaux (France). Additionally, through a strong collaboration with the School of Medicine (Southampton General Hospital, Cancer Centre) a significant part of the project will be conducted there.
If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Eugen Stulz, Bioorganic and Materials Chemistry Research Group, Email: [Email Address Removed], Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 9369.
Entry Requirements
Only candidates complying with the Early Stage Researcher requirements (less than 4 years of research experience following a graduation from a degree qualifying for entry to PhD) and mobility (less than 12 months spent in the UK within the last three years) are eligible.
Closing date: 16 March 2021.
Funding: The position is fully funded for 3 years and includes a competitive salary, fees, and support for training and secondments. The salary range is £36,718 – £48,937. You must be eligible for home/EU (non-overseas) fees at the University of Southampton.
How To Apply
Apply online. Select programme type (Research), 2021/22, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Chemistry (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Eugen Stulz (1336021EB).
You should also submit a completed online application form at www.jobs.soton.ac.uk.
Applications should include:
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts to date
Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page
For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]
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