Synthesis and characterisation of novel sulfide delivery molecules - MSc by Research (funded) Ref: 5684

Supervisors

Professor Matt Whiteman

Professor Mark E. Wood

Summary

The successful candidate will design, synthesise and characterise novel potential drug candidates to target intracellular structures that regulate cellular metabolism which have potential therapeutic application in a wide variety of human disease conditions. In support of this, the compounds generated will be evaluated by other team members in relevant cellular and in vivo models.

The University of Exeter Medical School and Department of Biosciences is inviting applications for a funded MSc by Research Studentship as soon as possible.  For eligible students the studentship will cover Home fees, consumables, conference attendance (when appropriate) and an annual tax-free stipend of at least £5,000 for up to 2 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study.  The student would be based primarily in Exeter in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences at the Streatham Campus but will also work at St Luke’s Campus in Exeter.

Project Description

This project is a fully funded MSc by Research Scholarship and builds on a successful decade-long research programme at the University of Exeter developing novel molecules to address unmet clinical needs. This is evidenced by high impact and highly cited publications, innovation (e.g. 20 new ideas from UK universities that will change the world), patent applications and commercialisation (e.g. UoE spinout, MitoRx Therapeutics). Here, you will design, synthesise and characterise novel potential drug structures to target intracellular structures that regulate cellular metabolism which have potential therapeutic application in a wide variety of human disease conditions. In parallel, the compounds you generate will be evaluated by other team members in relevant cellular and in vivo models. Depending on progress, it is expected that you will present your research at national and/or international major research conferences.

A suitable candidate will have either a degree in Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry or Pharmacy. We will also consider those with evidence of relevant professional hands-on professional experience in either synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry or pharmacy. An understanding of confidentiality and intellectual property is desirable.

The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit. Students who pay international tuition fees are eligible to apply. However, they should be aware that the award will only covers part (approximately £10,000) of the international tuition fee (currently £28,600pa) and does not include a stipend for living expenses.   

International applicants need to be aware that they will have to cover the cost of their student visa, healthcare surcharge and other costs related to moving to the UK.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK and/or relevant professional experience in an appropriate area of synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry or pharmacy/pharmaceutical chemistry.

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information.

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents

•             CV

•             Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project).

•             Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)

•             Two references from referees familiar with your academic work. If your referees prefer, they can email the reference direct to 

              PGRApplicants@exeter.ac.uk quoting the studentship reference number.

•             If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 1st December 2025.  Interviews will be held virtually in December or January 2025.

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5684 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

General Enquiries

For general information about this studentship and the application process, please contact PGRApplicants@exeter.ac.uk. Project specific queries should be directed to the main supervisor.

Summary