PhD Studentship: Contemporary Approaches to Biotherapeutics: Flow Chemistry and Biocatalysis

University of East Anglia - School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Project Supervisor - Professor Robert Field

Glycoprotein biopharmaceuticals are increasingly important due to their ability to treat diseases where small molecule drugs do not prove effective. Archetypal examples include monoclonal antibodies used in cancer therapy, such as Trastuzumab, which targets HER2-positive breast cancer cells. They are also vital in treating autoimmune diseases; for instance, Etanercept is a glycoprotein that inhibits tumour necrosis factor (TNF) to reduce inflammation. In addition, glycoproteins like erythropoietin (EPO) stimulate red blood cell production in patients suffering with anaemia. Cheap, scalable routes to produce glycoprotein biotherapeutics are therefore needed.

In this project, we will explore contemporary preparative approaches based on flow chemistry, biocatalysis, and the integration of the two. We will use state-of-the-art automated multi-step flow chemistry to chemically synthesise homogeneous glycopeptides and glycoproteins, the glycosylation of which will be tailored by enzymatic glycoengineering.

The project will develop skills in chemical and enzymatic synthesis, purification techniques (flash chromatography, HPLC), spectroscopic (NMR) and mass spectrometry analysis. As such, prior experience in organic chemistry research would be advantageous, as would a willingness to engage in collaborative interdisciplinary medicinal and biological chemistry programs. The student will join a well-supported team of chemists and biochemists (Master’s and PhD students, and postdocs) who are well-placed to provide a supportive and ambitious peer group. The student will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and will be equipped with relevant transferrable skills by the end of their PhD.

Entry Requirements

Acceptable first degree subjects - Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Natural Sciences.

Minimum academic requirement - A 2:1 undergraduate degree with a Masters qualification.

Start Date:1 October 2026

Additional Funding Information

This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises ‘home’ tuition fees and an annual stipend for 3 years.