Stapling of natural peptides by C-H functionalization, and applications in drug discovery

The aim of this PhD studentship is to develop new synthetic methods to improve the properties of peptide therapeutic agents. Peptides are a highly attractive alternative to small molecule drugs, often possessing higher target specificity. However, native peptides generally have poor pharmacological properties. Stapled peptides, in which the peptide is constrained in its bioactive conformation, are proposed to improve these properties, including binding affinity to the target, stability of the peptide, and cell penetration.

In this project, we will exploit state-of-the-art C-H functionalization technology to develop new methods for peptide stapling. Crucially, these methods will rely only upon natural amino acids, and will not affect nucleophilic sites in the peptide that may be important in target binding.

This multi-disciplinary project will suit a student interested in developing synthetic methodology to address a biological problem. The selected student will have the opportunity to develop skills in synthetic and analytical techniques related to cutting-edge organic chemistry and chemical biology, including C-H functionalization and peptide chemistry. There will also be opportunities to develop expertise in high-level computational chemistry methods to gain further scientific insight. The student will join a vibrant research group and work in new state-of-the-art laboratory facilities (opened September 2017).

Further information about the Cross group can be found at:
https://www.ntu.ac.uk/staff-profiles/science-technology/warren-cross

Further information about the Perry group can be found at:
https://www.ntu.ac.uk/staff-profiles/science-technology/carole-perry

Informal enquiries to either supervisor are welcomed.

Specific qualifications/subject areas required of the applicants for this project
Applicants should hold, or be expected to hold, an UK Master’s degree (or UK equivalent according to NARIC) with a minimum of a Commendation, and/or a UK 1stClass / 2.1 Bachelor’s Honours degree (or UK equivalent according to NARIC) in Chemistry or a related subject.

Panel members who will perform shortlisting

Chair: Prof. Ellen BILLETT, [Email Address Removed]

Panel member 1: Dr. Eli VERDARIO-EDWARDS, [Email Address Removed]

Panel member 2: Dr. Warren CROSS. [Email Address Removed]

Interviews are likely to take place on the following dates: 08/01/2018 to 19/01/2018

This studentship competition is open to applicants who wish to study for a PhD on a full-time basis only. The studentship will pay UK/EU fees (currently set at £4,195 for 2017/18 and are revised annually) and provide a maintenance stipend linked to the RCUK rate (this is revised annually and is currently set at £14,553 for the academic year 2017/18) for up to three years. Applications from non-EU students are welcome, but a successful non-EU candidate would be responsible for paying the difference between non-EU and UK/EU fees. (Fees for 2017/18 are £12,900 for non-EU students and £4,195 for UK/EU students). The studentships will be expected to commence in October 2018.