IDP Glue — Capturing disordered protein complexes using sticky small molecules

About the Project

Only ~11% of human proteins are currently considered druggable using conventional small-molecule approaches. This limitation arises from the requirement for well-defined binding pockets or structured surfaces. However, many key disease drivers—including RNA-binding proteins, transcription factors, and scaffolding proteins—lack such features and are therefore often classified as “undruggable”.

This PhD project aims to address this fundamental challenge by developing new chemical biology strategies to modulate protein function in complex disease, with a focus on neurodegeneration. You will integrate molecular biophysics, structural biology, and drug discovery approaches to design and identify chemical tools that stabilise disease-relevant protein complexes.

Key research questions include:

• Can native protein complexes be stabilised and anchored within the nucleus?
• Can fragment-based screening approaches accelerate the discovery of molecular glue stabilisers?
• Can new mechanisms of action for molecular glues be identified and exploited for therapeutic benefit?

You will work at the interface of chemical biology and drug discovery, developing and applying biophysical and structural approaches to understand and control protein complex formation. The project will involve recombinant protein production, assay development, and screening strategies to identify small molecules that stabilise protein–protein interactions.

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in drug discovery, molecular mechanisms of disease, and chemical biology. Applicants should have completed a Master’s by research or hold a First-Class or Upper Second-Class (2:1) Honours degree in a relevant discipline.

Essential experience:

• Recombinant protein expression in bacterial or related systems, including transformation, expression optimisation, and affinity purification
• Experience with biophysical assays such as TR-FRET, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), or related techniques
• Good understanding of protein purification tags and plasmid design
• Demonstrated ability to optimise protein expression systems and/or biophysical assays

You will be based in the Cossar Lab within the Centre for Targeted Protein Degradation (CeTPD), a multidisciplinary environment with world-class facilities. The lab focuses on molecular glue-, covalent-, and fragment-based drug discovery to probe fundamental biological questions and develop new therapeutic strategies.

You will receive comprehensive training in molecular biophysics, structural biology, and chemical biology, alongside tailored mentorship to support your scientific and career development.

The University of Dundee offers a highly collaborative and inclusive research culture that fosters innovation and supports ambitious researchers. We particularly welcome applications from candidates with strong motivation and potential to contribute to advances in drug discovery and chemical biology.

How to apply

Applications are made via the form which can be found on our website: IDP Glue — Capturing disordered protein complexes using sticky small molecules | University of Dundee, UK

The application deadline for this round is 11.59pm on 29th May 2026 but interviews may be arranged as soon as eligible and suitable candidates apply.

Funding Notes

If you are successful, you will receive a full Royal Society stipend (currently £22,350) also covering tuition fees, training, and travel budget.