Development of new molecular tools for cell biology and neuroscience through protein engineering and synthetic biology
University of Cambridge, Department of Chemistry. Supervisor: Dr Mateo Sanchez Lopez. Monday, November 30, 2026. Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide).
About the Project
The Mateo Sanchez Lab located in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge works at the interface of chemistry and biology. Our research aims to use the concepts and tools of chemistry to address fundamental questions in cell biology and neuroscience, while harnessing the power of biological systems to discover and engineer new chemical transformations and molecular functions.
The proposed PhD project will focus on the development of new molecular tools through protein engineering approaches, including directed evolution and protein design. A major component of the project will involve developing and implementing novel selection and screening strategies to create new protein chimeras.
These tools will be applied to a range of biological and biotechnological questions, with potential applications spanning from neuroscience, optogenetics, cell biology, to synthetic biology. Depending on the candidate’s interests and the progress of the project, the research may involve the development of genetically encoded sensors, actuators, reporters, or other engineered molecular systems for studying and manipulating biological processes in living cells.
The project offers an opportunity to work across traditional disciplinary boundaries and to gain expertise in a broad range of experimental approaches. These may include molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, biochemical and biophysical characterisation, directed evolution, high-throughput screening and selection, fluorescence-based assays, and the design and implementation of synthetic biological systems. The candidate will also have opportunities to develop skills in experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and the interpretation and communication of complex biological data.
We are looking for a candidate with an excellent academic record and a strong background in molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline. Previous research experience in protein engineering, synthetic biology, molecular biology, or a related area would be highly advantageous. An MPhil, MSc, or equivalent research experience in a relevant field is strongly recommended. Most importantly, we are seeking an individual who is intellectually curious, enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research, and motivated to develop new experimental approaches to challenging biological problems.
The successful candidate will be expected to contribute creatively to the development of the project, take ownership of their research, and work effectively as part of a collaborative and interdisciplinary team. They will be encouraged to develop their own ideas and research directions while contributing to the broader research activities of the laboratory. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, are essential, as the candidate will be expected to present their findings clearly through group meetings and seminars.
This PhD provides an exciting opportunity to develop cutting-edge expertise at the interface of chemistry, protein engineering, and synthetic biology, while contributing to the development of new molecular technologies with applications in cell biology and neuroscience.
For more information about our research, laboratory environment, and research philosophy, please visit the Mateo Sanchez Lab website.
Funding Notes
Covering tuition fees and salary for both home and international students.
References
- Development of novel indicators and molecular systems for calcium sensing through protein engineering. Climent-Catalá A, Sánchez MI. Curr. Opin. Chem. Bio. 2025, 84, 102547.
- Transcriptional readout of neuronal activity via an engineered Ca+2-activated protease. Sanchez MI, Wang W, Nguyen Q.-A, Soltesz I, Ting AY. PNAS 2020, 117, 33186.
- Directed evolution improves the catalytic efficiency of TEV protease. Sanchez MI, Ting AY. Nat. Methods 2020, 17, 167.
Open Days
17 September 2026 (Multiple dates)
University of Cambridge — Postgraduate College Visit Days
Cambridge (United Kingdom)
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