Nanostructured Self-Assembly of Bio-Derived and Bio-Inspired Lipid-Based Amphiphiles: Analysis and Biochemistry

This exciting research project is associated with an EPSRC Fellowship award to Prof Hamley. This is a 4-year project which also involves two postdoctoral researchers and another PhD studentship. This studentship is focused on the physical chemical characterization of the self-assembly of innovative classes of nanostructured lipid conjugates (NLCs) containing bio-derived and biocompatible lipids, peptides and sugars linked together into multi-functional molecules. Combining these natural molecules by linking different components will lead to new structures and functions. The formation of nanoscale ordered structures in these materials in the melt will be examined using x-ray scattering and advanced microscopy methods, and we will evaluate their performance as biosurfactants and as drug delivery systems using cell models. Many of these NLCs have not been studied before and will have unique and unexpected properties and functions. This project fits within an established, prestigious, friendly and thriving research group which hosts numerous other postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers as well as visiting scientists from around the world. The project offers exciting possibilities for travel to overseas collaborators and research facilities. Significant scientific and commercial impact is expected in the development of new bionanomaterials. The research will provide a strong foundation for future career development. Previous group members from among more than 50 scientists supervised have gone on to successful careers in industry, science facilities and academia.

to apply for this project please visit: https://www.reading.ac.uk/graduate-school/doctoral-opportunities/how-to-apply