Synthesis of Fluorinated Heterocycles (Ref: CM/MK-SF2/2026)

About the Project

This project will involve synthetic organic chemistry to prepare novel nitrogen heterocyclic compounds based (including pyridones, cinnolines or quinoxalines) using nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) of fluoroarenes to allow rapid construction of small molecules of interest as drug candidates as antibiotics, anti-cancer agents or against Neglected Tropical Diseases. The SNAr reaction represents a versatile method to prepare compounds suitable for biological screening in only two or three steps. The presence of fluorine in the compounds can improve their drug properties, and also allows further derivatisation to modify the structures in response to screening results. New compounds will be analysed by 1H, 13C and 19F NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and X-ray diffraction to confirm structural identity and purity. The project will provide a thorough training in synthetic, mechanistic and medicinal chemistry, and contribute new methods for drug development.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead: George Weaver g.w.weaver@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor: Marc Kimber

Entry requirements: Applicants should hold a first or upper second class degree in chemistry or a closely related discipline. Experience of practical synthetic chemistry is required.

English language requirements: Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (link).

Bench fees required: Yes Bench fee value: £2000 per annum

Closing date of advert: 31st December 2026

Start date: October 2026, February 2027

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)

How to apply: All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Chemistry. Please quote the advertised reference number: CM/MK-SF2/2026 in your application. To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents.

Project search terms: chemistry, heterocycles, organofluorine, medicinal chemistry, neglected tropical diseases, synthesis