Lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles as anti-infective delivery systems

This is a call for applications for a three-year fully funded PhD studentship in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS) at Liverpool John Moores University. PBS is at the forefront of higher education in Pharmacy, Biomedical Science, Forensic Science and related areas, and has excellent working relationships with pharmaceutical providers, the NHS and industry.

Project Description

Antimicrobial-resistant infections are estimated to cause 700,000 deaths worldwide every year, with this value predicted to rise to 10 million by 2050. The increasing level of drug resistance in Gram-negative bacteria is of particular concern – this is mediated by their complex double-membrane envelope structure, which presents a formidable barrier to the entry and action of anti-infectives. As a further problem, the shrinking pool of effective antibiotics is currently not being refilled by new treatment options. There is therefore an urgent need to i) develop delivery strategies to enhance anti-infective trafficking across the bacterial cell envelope, and ii) explore alternative options to traditional antibiotics. This project aims to address both needs, through the investigation and evaluation of lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (nanoparticles consisting of a robust polymer core surrounded by a membrane-like lipid shell) as a delivery system for new anti-infective therapies.

The successful applicant will investigate and evaluate methods for the preparation of lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, employing a variety of polymeric and lipidic starting materials. Optimised lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles will be loaded with novel anti-infective agents or anti-infective combinations, and extensively characterised with respect to both physical and chemical properties. The efficacy of lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles against a range of bacteria will be determined in vitro; gained results will be used to inform further, advanced in vitro evaluation of developed lipid-polymer hybrid systems, as well as possible in vivo testing. Full training will be provided in all utilised techniques and assays – these will include emulsion- and microfluidics-based nanoparticle preparation techniques; particle morphology, size and surface charge characterisation tools (microscopy, DLS); methods for quantification of active encapsulation and release (HPLC, BCA assay); and mammalian and bacterial cell culture-based assays for probing particle-cell interactions (MTT, MIC). The successful candidate will benefit from the diverse expertise of the supervisory team, and will also be given opportunities to engage with teaching and learning activities within PBS.

Candidate Qualities

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with strong critical thinking skills to work on this exciting and highly interdisciplinary project. Good communication skills in both written and spoken English are a must, as is the ability to work well in a team environment.

Entry Requirements

The ideal candidate will hold an undergraduate degree at 2:1 or above (or equivalent) and a Master’s degree in a life science-related subject (pharmacy/pharmaceutical science, biomedical science, microbiology, or other relevant discipline), from a recognised academic institution. Prior experience in development and characterisation of drug delivery systems would be beneficial.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity or for more information, please email Dr. Sarah Gordon ([Email Address Removed]).

How to Apply

Applications should be sent directly to Dr. Sarah Gordon ([Email Address Removed]) and should include a CV and covering letter detailing your relevant experience and suitability for the project, as well as contact details of two referees.

We expect to conduct interviews in early September, with a view to complete enrolment for the successful applicant within the fixed enrolment window of 24th September – 5th October 2018.