PhD Studentship: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Terpene-derived Natural Products

School of Chemistry

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Terpene-derived Natural Products

Prof Christopher J. Hayes

Application Deadline: 18/03/2024

Starting date: Oct 2024

Funded PhD project (UK students only)

Project Description

We are recruiting to a PhD Studentship in the School of Chemistry at the University of Nottingham, to work under the direction of Professor Chris Hayes.  The project will develop novel natural product-derived biologically active molecules.   In this project, you will develop synthetic methods to allow the construction of diterpene (i.e. taxane) and sesquiterpene (i.e. thapsigargin) structures that will be evaluated for their biological activity.  This project builds on our research group’s expertise in natural product chemistry and their use as potential new drugs (Virulence2021, 12, 2946-2956; Viruses 2021, 13, 234; J. Org. Chem.2020, 85, 4507-4514; Chemical Science, 2016, 7, 3102-3107) 

This project will provide experience of multi-step synthetic organic chemistry and its application to the synthesis of biologically active molecules and/or natural products.  New molecules will be tested for biological activity by our project partners, and the leading compounds will be selected for further development into new therapeutics.  This timely and exciting project is a collaboration between researchers based in the Schools of Chemistry, Plant Sciences, Veterinary Medicine & Science and Pharmacy at University of Nottingham.

Funding Notes

Fully funded studentship to commence in October 2024. UK students only – tuition fees paid and full stipend, tax-free, for 42 months at the RCUK rate (currently £18,622 per annum). International students will not be considered unless they hold a confirmed scholarship to cover the international fees.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have, or be expected to achieve, at least a 2:1 MChem/MSci-4-year integrated Masters Honours degree (or BSc + MSc with substantial research experience) in Chemistry/Medicinal Chemistry.  Previous experience in synthetic organic chemistry will be beneficial.

How to apply

Formal applications should be made online through the University of Nottingham’s online application system: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/apply-online.aspx , and should include CV, cover letter and academic transcripts, and

Prospective applicants can contact Prof Chris Hayes, Email: [email protected] for further discussion/clarification of the project.