Access-Controlled Oxidation: Understanding the role of structure in protein damage (Ref: CG-AC-2526)

About the Project

Protein oxidation is a major marker of protein damage in aging and disease processes, and can occur through a number of routes. One poorly understood contributing element is how protein structure, including local structure, controls the outcomes of oxidation events in the body. This project seeks to establish the role of structure so that health impacts can be better predicted.

As part of our team, you will look at the influence of protein structure in changing the accessibility and reactivity of reactive species, particularly radicals with disease-linked proteins. You will use and develop state-of-the-art computational methods, to complement experiments carried out by our collaborators at Copenhagen University in Denmark. This will enable us to more fully understand the radical reactions and their outcomes, alongside their biological impact. Where required, training in specific computational methods (molecular dynamics, quantum mechanics, machine learning) will be provided. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain valuable transferrable skills (including through our doctoral college), network with international and industry partners, and be well-set up for a role in either industry, data science or academia at the end of the programme.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Professor Anna K Croft a.k.croft@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor:
Professor Mike Davies https://researchprofiles.ku.dk/en/persons/michael-j-davies/

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have at least, or expect to achieve, a 1st or good 2:1 MChem, MEng, or MSci or equivalent in an appropriate scientific discipline including chemistry, physics, computing, biology, or engineering, with a background in and passion for chemical sciences. You will join a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research team at Loughborough led by Prof Anna K Croft, with opportunities for collaboration with other internationally leading groups in academia and industry.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: Yes - Bench fee value: 4000

Closing date of advert: 3rd August 2026

Start date: July 2026, October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years, Part-time 6 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply:

• Stage 1: You are strongly advised to contact Professor Anna Croft in the first instance on a.k.croft@lboro.ac.uk with a CV, academic transcripts, a reference letter, and confirmation of funding source. Informal discussions are also welcome.
• Stage 2: Following discussion with Professor Anna Croft, applicants will be invited to make a formal application at online. Under programme name, select ‘Chemical Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number CG-AC-2526 in your application

Project search terms:
artificial intelligence, biochemistry, computational chemistry, machine learning, physical chemistry, proteins, aging, disease, oxidation, molecular dynamics, quantum chemistry, health