Developing SABRE RELAY, a new approach for hyperpolarisation

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is the single most important method we have for the determination of molecular structure in solution. Related, magnetic resonance imaging, is critical to clinical medicine and yet while they are so important, when compared to many other analytical methods, they are insensitive. This is because the nuclear spin interactions that create measurable magnetisation are weak. Hyperpolarization methods overcome this problem by efficiently creating magnetic order but are often highly expensive and produce signals that last for just a few seconds. Nonetheless, detailed images of lungs, the tracking of in vivo metabolism and our wide ranging studies on catalysis show the potential of these methods.

We developed a simple hyperpolarization route In York that uses parahydrogen which we called SABRE. It is a catalytic process which instead of changing the chemical identify of a species changes its magnetic detectability. It requires the target substrate to act as a ligand, because it must bind reversibly to a metal centre alongside parahydrogen. Hence multiple-bonded nitrogen atoms, possessing a lone pair, such as those of pyridine fulfil this requirement and are suitable. This breakthrough led to the establishment of the multimillion pound York Centre for Hyperpolarisation in Magnetic Resonance where this project will be based.

As part of a new development we have now generalized the SABRE approach, as SABRE-RELAY. We use an intermediary to transfer polarization to a much wider range of species than was previously possible through proton exchange. This project seeks to establish optimal intermediaries, probe the role of water and hydroxide, widen the range of solvent systems, seek to optimise the hyperpolarisation of water itself and maximise the signals gains across the spin ½ manifold of nuclei accessible to NMR. You will therefore work with us on a highly exciting development that has the potential to truly revolutionise magnetic resonance and clinical medicine.

All research students follow our innovative Doctoral Training in Chemistry (iDTC): cohort-based training to support the development of scientific, transferable and employability skills. All research students take the core training package which provides both a grounding in the skills required for their research, and transferable skills to enhance employability opportunities following graduation. Core training is progressive and takes place at appropriate points throughout a student’s higher degree programme, with the majority of training taking place in Year 1. In conjunction with the Core training, students, in consultation with their supervisor(s), select training related to the area of their research.

You will gain advanced training in MR based analytical chemistry, photochemistry and synthesis. The project is underpinned by the large multidisciplinary research program in CHyM that will help ensure we produce a skilled researcher with a broad range of experience. You will learn to design and implement experiments on a range of NMR devices. CHyM’s research students receive wide-ranging support as they learn to interpret their own data and communicate their results through group presentations, conferences and scientific manuscripts (35 from the group in the last 3 years).

Shortlisting will take place as soon as possible after the closing date and successful applicants will be notified promptly. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview to take place at the University of York on either the 13 or 15 February 2018. Candidates will be asked to give a short presentation prior to their interview by an academic panel.

The Department of Chemistry holds an Athena SWAN Gold Award and is committed to supporting equality and diversity for all staff and students. This PhD project is available to study full-time or part-time (50%).