About this project
Applications are invited for a PhD project in synthetic chemistry.
Based in the University of Hull’s Chemistry Department, the appointed postgraduate researcher will utilize macrocyclic-based scaffolds as carriers for metals of relevance to cancer (for example titanium, vanadium and rhenium). These macrocycles will be able to carry the metal (radiolabel) directly to the tumour/cancerous area and will not adversely affect surrounding healthy tissue. Such a system would mean smaller dosages and less side effects for patients. All new complexes will be fully characterized by a multitude of spectroscopic and analytical techniques, and their cell biology and uptake will be evaluated.
For informal inquiries, please contact the primary supervisor for this project - Prof Carl Redshaw.
About the research cluster
The scholarship forms part of a PhD cluster supporting a major research project funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). This is a joint project with Imperial College London and King’s College London, and is also supported by industrial partners.
The successful applicant will benefit from working alongside investigators across the Chemistry Department and the PET Research Centre (part of the Hull Molecular Imaging Centres development (HuMIC) at UoH), as well as with collaborators at Imperial and King’s Colleges. The postgraduate researcher will form an important and integral part of the project team, driving this exciting multidisciplinary and impactful research forward. They will be able to present their work on academic platforms, co-author papers, and work closely with our project industry partners. They will also benefit from close collaboration with the UoH-Medical Research Council CiC interdisciplinary mini-PhD cluster “Immune cell markers in chronic disease” and the ”Hull University Theragnostics” PhD cluster.
HuMIC is a single operational unit formed in 2022, bringing together three centres; Positron Emission Tomography Research Centre (PETRC), Molecular Imaging Research Centre (MIRC) and Jack Brignall PET-CT Centre. It was developed and is led jointly between Daisy Appeal (a local Charitable Trust) and the UoH to provide research and clinical facilities for researchers. The Molecular Imaging Research Centre building (GMP radiotracer) will be fully operational by early 2023 providing a second cyclotron for radioisotope production in Hull. This collaboration is the first worldwide to implement a translational PET strategy based on dose-on-demand PET radiotracer production.
Submission of thesis
Submission of your final thesis is expected within three years and three months from the start of your PhD scholarship for full time and within five years and six months if studying part-time.
Research training
As a postgraduate researcher here at the University of Hull you will undertake the Postgraduate Training Scheme alongside your main degree, to help you develop the research skills and knowledge you’ll need in your future career. You will gain an additional Certificate or Diploma in Research Training in additional to your PhD.
How to apply
You will need to supply a personal statement when applying for this scholarship position. Find out more about writing a personal statement. Please also ensure you include the following information:
- What motivates you to pursue PhD study
- Why you are interested in this project
- How your skill set matches the requirements for your choice of project and/or any additional training you will need
- The wider significance of research in this area and potential future research directions for the project.
Apply for this scholarship: full-time | part-time
Closing date for applications
Friday 28 April 2023