Using paediatric GI data to better understand dissolution and absorption in paediatric populations

Applications are invited for a 3-year fully-funded PhD Studentship starting October 2019.

The project will be supervised by Dr Hannah Batchelor and is aligned to her research in paediatric medicines.

Growing interest in the development of age-appropriate medication for children has prompted research and development of mini-tablets or sprinkle formulations rather than liquids. Prediction of the dissolution of solid dosage forms in children is complex due to lack of knowledge of the composition and volume of fluid present in the GI tract, as well as the area of contact between GI fluids and mucosal tissues.

This project aims to optimise a mechanistic paediatric drug absorption in silico model. It will use data from measurements of paediatric intestinal fluid volume and composition, and transporter expression, alongside paediatric measurements of intestinal surface area and surface contact area within the GI tract. The effects of these newly generated inputs to the model will be tested via simulation of model drug compounds, to understand how revisions affect pharmacokinetic predictions, and the results compared to previous evidence in the literature.

Study data will be incorporated into the Certara, SimCYP ADAM model and simulations undertaken to highlight clinically important divergence. Previously differences in the absorption profile of lamivudine among children in comparison to adults were related to dose-liquid ratio in the GI tract. Comparisons of drug solubility and dissolution based on bile salt compositions in real and simulated media will also be undertaken within this project. Verification of the updated model will be undertaken based on literature datasets.

Person Specification:

Applicants should have a strong background in pharmaceutics with an interest in biopharmaceutics and pharmacokinetics. They should have a commitment to paediatric research and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, chemistry or engineering.

How to apply:

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Hannah Batchelor ([Email Address Removed]) or 0121 414 3717

To be considered for this studentship, please send the following documents to Viktorija Ziabliceva ([Email Address Removed]):

• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.