PhD Multivalent lipid nanoparticles as a platform for studying cell-nanoparticle interactions in brain disease therapy

About the Project

Nanoparticles have become essential tools for drug delivery and diagnostics in brain diseases, but their interactions with cells and tissues remain poorly understood. This multidisciplinary project explores how multivalent lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) interact with cells, focusing on their ability to bind, be internalised, and navigate biological barriers such as the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Understanding these interactions will help optimise nanoparticle design for improved targeting, uptake, and therapeutic efficiency in brain disease treatment.

Over four years, we will use biophysical, physicochemical, and biological techniques to study how LNPs behave in biological environments. Advanced imaging and molecular interaction analysis will help map how nanoparticle surface modifications influence cellular uptake and intracellular trafficking. The outcomes of this research will contribute to developing next-generation drug carriers and improving treatments for brain cancers and neurodegenerative diseases.

This project is conducted in collaboration with AstraZeneca (AZ), and candidates will have the opportunity to spend part of their time at AZ’s facilities under the supervision of Dr Marianne Ashford, gaining industry experience and access to additional research expertise and resources.

This is a self-funded PhD project. Interested applicants should contact the supervisors before applying to discuss project suitability.

Entry requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, such as biomedical sciences, pharmacy, chemistry, nanotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field.

Candidates with experience in nanoparticle formulation, biophysical characterisation techniques (e.g., Langmuir trough, BLI, SPR, QCM), microscopy (confocal or super-resolution), or flow cytometry are particularly encouraged to apply. Additionally, those interested in nanomedicine, drug delivery, and brain disease research will find this project highly relevant and rewarding.

How to apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor.

For international students, we offer the opportunity for you to undertake an accredited teaching certificate whilst carrying out your research with our PhD with Integrated Teaching Certificate. We also offer self-funded international students the chance to study a master’s before progressing onto a PhD with our Integrated PhD. Visit our international postgraduate researchers page to find out more.

On the application form please select PhD Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 3 fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website