Synthesis of new DNA binding to compounds target genetic diseases such as cancer and diabetes (WALLERZU19SF) at University of East Anglia on FindAPhD.com

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Dr Z Waller, Prof M Searcey No more applications being accepted Self-Funded PhD Students Only

About the Project

Synthesis of new DNA binding compounds to target genetic diseases such as cancer and diabetes

It is often assumed that DNA exists only as the iconic Watson-Crick double helix but it can actually adopt many different types of structure depending on the sequence and environmental conditions. These alternative structures may play a role in gene expression (whether genes are switched on or off) and also in the development of genetic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. By targeting these alternative DNA structures, this could allow for more specific interventions and therapeutics compared to traditional chemotherapies.

This PhD project will involve studying how small molecules, with the potential to be drug candidates, interact with these special DNA structures. The work will be interdisciplinary and will involve training in a wide range of techniques, from organic synthesis of new molecules, characterisation of their interaction with DNA and their effect in cells. There will be the opportunity to work and collaborate with other research groups across the Norwich Research Park. The final project outline will be planned with the student’s interests in mind.

The student will have, or expect to obtain a first class, 2(i) or equivalent Honours degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy or a related area.

Informal enquiries are welcomed; for further information please contact Dr Zoë Waller ([Email Address Removed])

Type of programme: PhD
Start date: October 2019
Mode of Study: Full time
Acceptable first degree: 2:1 in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Natural Sciences, Biology
Application deadline: 31 May 2019, applications are processed as soon as they are received and the project may be filled before the closing date, so early application is encouraged.

Funding Notes

This PhD project is offered on a self-funding basis. It is open to applicants with funding or those applying to funding sources. Details of tuition fees can be found at http://www.uea.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/fees-and-funding.

A bench fee is also payable on top of the tuition fee to cover specialist equipment or laboratory costs required for the research. The amount charged annually will vary considerably depending on the nature of the project and applicants should contact the primary supervisor for further information about the fee associated with the project.

References

i) Balasubramanian, S; Hurley, LH; Neidle, S. Targeting G-quadruplexes in gene promoters: a novel anticancer strategy? Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2011 Apr;10(4):261-75.
ii) Brooks, TA; Kendrick, S; Hurley, L; Making sense of G-quadruplex and i-motif functions in oncogene promoters FEBS J. 2010 Sep;277(17):3459-69.
iii) Day, HA; Pavlou, P; Waller, ZAE; i-Motif DNA: structure, stability and targeting with ligands. Bioorg Med Chem. 2014 Aug 15;22(16):4407-18.

Where will I study?

University of East Anglia

We’re one of the UK’s leading research institutions, ranked 10th in the UK for the quality of our research outputs and with more than 1,500 research students.

Synthesis of new DNA binding to compounds target genetic diseases such as cancer and diabetes (WALLERZU19SF)

University of East Anglia School of Pharmacy