Investigation of transition metal complex – DNA interactions.

About the Project

PhD details

Octahedral transition metal complexes have emerged as valuable tools in the design of complex cations capable of recognising and interacting with DNA. Their diverse photophysical and electrochemical properties at the octahedral metal centre make them highly versatile, with these properties readily tuned by altering the surrounding ligands.

Among these, d⁶ metal complexes such as ruthenium(II), osmium(II), rhodium(III), and iridium(III) polypyridyl complexes have attracted significant attention due to their high stability, resistance to racemisation, and favourable redox and photochemical characteristics (Cardin et al., 2017). Of particular interest are ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes, which exhibit luminescence properties and have proven effective as DNA probes. When combined with X-ray crystallography, their well-defined photophysical and electrochemical profiles have provided critical insight into the sequence, enantiomeric, substituent, and structural specificity of DNA–metal complex interactions (McQuaid and Cardin, 2020).

This project aims to investigate the interaction between octahedral transition metal complexes and DNA using techniques such as UV-visible and luminescence spectroscopy, alongside X-ray crystallography. In doing so, the student will gain comprehensive experience in a wide range of inorganic and organic synthetic methods, focusing on the preparation, purification, and characterisation of novel transition metal complexes. In addition to acquiring essential technical skills, this project will enhance the postgraduate student's capacity for independent research through relevant training, scientific reporting, and presentation techniques. By the end of the PhD, the student will be equipped to design and carry out chemical reactions, interpret complex analytical data, and effectively communicate their findings through various formats, including group meetings, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications.

Note: There is flexibility for the direction of the project to be adapted in line with the applicant’s specific interests.

References

Cardin CJ, Kelly JM and Quinn SJ (2017) Photochemically active DNA-intercalating ruthenium and related complexes-insights by combining crystallography and transient spectroscopy. Chemical Science 8(7), 4705–4723. https://doi.org/10.1039/c7sc01070b

McQuaid KT and Cardin CJ (2020) The eyes have it: Using X-ray crystallography to determine the binding modes of medically relevant ruthenium/DNA complexes. Advances in Inorganic Chemistry 75, 393–424. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.adioch.2019.10.010

University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, is ranked at 172 globally, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. 98% of research at the University is of international standing (REF 2021, combining the University’s world leading, internationally excellent and internationally recognised submissions). The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful, award-winning parkland, less than a 30-minute train ride to London Paddington and is approximately 30 miles from London Heathrow airport.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision and training in a number of different forms. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If you need to develop your academic English skills before you start your studies, then the University has an excellent International Study and Language Institute which can help with this.

Eligibility:

• Applicants should have a good bachelor’s degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) or equivalent)/master’s degree in chemistry or a strongly-related discipline.
• International applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional English courses that can help with meeting these requirements.

The University of Reading is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and non-discriminatory treatment for all members of its community.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Chemistry via our online application system.

Further information:

https://www.reading.ac.uk/chemistry/phd

Enquiries:

Dr. Michael M. Piperakis, email: m.m.piperakis@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.