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We have 182 Synthetic Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
Synthetic Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
We have 182 Synthetic Chemistry PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
If your passion is in the development of new chemical structures, you could be working on cutting-edge research in the field of synthetic chemistry. Most PhDs in Synthetic Chemistry involve developing and testing new materials and chemicals, often in collaboration with other departments.
What's it like to study a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry?
As a graduate student, you'll be working towards an independent thesis that will make a significant contribution to the field of Synthetic Chemistry. You'll likely divide your time between lab-based research, writing and reviewing sections of your thesis, and attending supervisory meetings.
Possible research areas include:
- Organic synthesis
- Molecular design and synthesis
- Polymer chemistry
- Biological chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Nanomaterials
- Forensic chemistry
- Energy materials
You may also be asked to take modules in areas such as scientific writing, research methods, and laboratory skills, which are taught through attached research centres and departments.
Most PhDs in Synthetic Chemistry last three years. However, it is possible to transfer to a Research Masters at the end of your first year, which will result in an award of MPhil.
Entry requirements for a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry
The minimum entry requirement for a PhD in Synthetic Chemistry is usually a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, such as Chemistry or Chemical Engineering. A Masters may be required, though this is sometimes optional.
PhD in Synthetic Chemistry funding options
You can apply for a research council studentship which covers the cost of your tuition fee and a living cost allowance. You may also be able to apply for a government loan. It is worth checking with your prospective supervisor about funding options before you apply.
PhD in Synthetic Chemistry careers
Expertise in chemistry and chemical engineering makes it easy to find a job in research, pharmaceuticals, forensics or academia. You could also use your skills and knowledge to work in the chemical industry.
Chemical modification of mRNA for enhanced translation
mRNA vaccines have emerged as a new modality for preventing infectious diseases and treating cancer. This is due to their ability to rapidly produce specific proteins inside cells in a programmable manner. Read more
Supramolecular materials for bacteria-responsive coatings
Dynamic-covalent bonding offers a powerful approach to creating stable yet reversible structures and materials which respond to specific environmental cues such as temperature or pH. Read more
Elongasome: Synthesis of chemical probes to study bacterial cell wall formation
The bacterial cell wall is essential for the survival of most bacteria. It is also what dictates their shape. Bacterial cell walls are comprised mostly of a compound called peptidoglycan, which is polymerised to form new cell wall material by a multiprotein complex known as the ‘elongasome’. Read more
New catalytic modalities for selective organic synthesis
A fully funded 4-year PhD studentship is available to start in October 2025 (or earlier if preferred) in the research group of Dr Allegra Franchino at Durham University (https://www.franchinolab.com). Read more
Sustainable synthesis: reaction development and applications in synthesis
A PhD position is available in the group of Professor John Bower at the University of Liverpool (https://bowerresearchgroup.wordpress.com/). Read more
Traceless Chemoenzymatic Peptide Synthesis
AstraZeneca/EPSRC-funded Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award (fully-funded PhD project, UK students only due to funding restrictions). Read more
Advanced materials for CO2 conversion to methanol
Meeting the net-zero commitment on greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 means significantly cutting back on emissions by 2035. However, currently, ~80% of our energy supply is dependent on fossil fuels which by default means additional emissions. Read more
Molecular design of rare-earth-ion complexes for quantum light-matter interactions on nanophotonic platforms
This project is part of the EPSRC Center for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton https://qte.ac.uk/). Read more
MRes - Developing novel PROTAC molecules targeting mutated BRAF (V600E) in melanoma disease: design, synthesis, and biological evaluation Project ID (SAS0215).
Melanoma ranks as the fifth most common cancer in the UK with over 132,000 new cases reported annually worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, this figure is predicted to rise significantly, reaching 500,000 by 2040. Read more
PhD in Chemistry: Small Molecule Activation and Valorisation Using Low-Coordinate Complexes
Small Molecule Activation and Valorisation Using Low-Coordinate Complexes. Transition metal complexes featuring highly coordinatively and electronically unsaturated centres are challenging synthetic targets, but they show unusual reactivity which stems from their unique coordination environments. Read more
PhD in Chemistry: Electrolysis Technologies for H2 production Catalysed by Plastrons and Foams.
Green hydrogen is hydrogen produced by water electrolysis using renewable electricity. Its production reduces dramatically CO. 2. Read more
Developing adjuvants to improve the antibacterial efficacy of fusidic acid: a novel approach to Antimicrobial Resistance?
Background. The antibiotic fusidic acid (FA) blocks bacterial protein synthesis by interacting with Elongation-factor G (EF-G). Resistance to FA is caused by FusB, which interacts with EF-G, altering its motion. Read more
Synthetic nucleic acids for intelligent sensors
In this project we will use organic chemistry to synthesise and evaluate a new class of nucleic acids designed to deliver rapid and simple detection and diagnostic approaches. Read more
Determining molecular mechanisms of action of anti-obesity medications in neural stem cells and neurons
medications in neural stem cells and neurons. Project Description. (Max 700 words). Project Overview Due to the increasing prevalence of obesity, Anti-Obesity Medications (AOMs) are among the most frequently prescribed drugs in human medicine. Read more
PhD in Asymmetric Synthesis and developing Lewis base-mediated transformations
Our research is currently directed towards developing catalytic methods for the promotion of a range of synthetic transformations with varying applications in asymmetric synthesis. Read more