About the Project
This fully funded 3.5-year PhD project focuses on the synthesis of customized, flexible molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) engineered to function as artificial chaperones. By developing high-quality recognition materials that target biological structures, we will generate protein and isoform specific cavity sites that replicate the active mechanisms of natural molecular chaperones.
The Project Scope
The primary objective is guided protein folding. By selectively engaging with denatured or misfolded proteins, we will aim for the nanoMIPs to suppress off-pathway hydrophobic aggregation, capturing unfolded intermediates and safely guiding them along correct refolding pathways. Serving as artificial chaperones, these polymeric systems dynamically bind and release guest biomolecules under controlled environmental triggers (such as pH or temperature changes), mirroring natural cellular machinery.
Furthermore, this project will explore enhancing overall protein stability, shielding embedded biomolecules against thermal denaturation, chemical stress, and proteolytic degradation.
This structural reinforcement is tailored to maintain enzyme activity across demanding industrial and biomedical processing conditions. Ultimately, this project aims to create scalable, cost-effective platforms to recover bioactive enzymes and therapeutic proteins, addressing major limitations in protein processing, biocatalysis, and targeted therapeutics.
It will break new ground by bringing advanced polymer design, bioassays, molecular modelling and biological spectroscopy together to create novel materials. You won’t just make nanoMIPs; you will redefine how they are applied in biological systems.
World-Class Infrastructure & Collaboration
You will join a vibrant interdisciplinary environment hosted within Chemistry (School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences). You will engage with:
- Polymer Synthesis: Apply molecular modelling, advanced synthetic techniques and an array of material characterisation techniques to create the nanoMIPs
- Advanced bioanalytical instrumentation: Utilise industry-leading spectroscopy and automation facilities to test and understand the biological capabilities of the materials.
- Healthcare Impact: Conduct research within the renowned Insigneo Institute of Healthcare Technology, driving innovation at the intersection of medicine, engineering, and science.
Comprehensive Skills & Career Training
This studentship offers rigorous, multi-faceted training designed to build an exceptional career profile in modern chemistry and materials science. You will gain direct expertise in:
- Advanced polymer synthesis and material characterisation
- Bioassay design, bio-spectroscopy and high-throughput experimentation.
- Robotic lab automation, data science, and programming
- Academic dissemination, patenting, and commercialisation strategies
To prepare you for leadership roles in industry or academia, you will receive tailored career development, options for teaching and mentoring, and full financial support to present your research at national and international conferences; and work with external group partners. The supervisory team maintains a track record of high-impact publishing and active integration into global chemistry, biological, spectroscopic and polymer networks.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related discipline.
- Required: A passion for interdisciplinary research, strong foundational chemistry/biochemistry knowledge, and enthusiasm for computational methods and laboratory automation.
- Desirable: Prior experience in polymer science and/or protein chemistry is advantageous, though comprehensive training in these tools will be provided.
Ready to pioneer the next generation of smart biomaterials?
Funding Notes
The award will fund the full tuition fee and a maintenance stipend at the UKRI rate (currently £21,805 p.a.) for 3.5 years, as well as a research grant to support project costs.
Interested UK-only candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Professor Nick Turner to discuss your interest in and suitability for the project ([contact details available in the full listing]).
