About the Project
Ion channels are transmembrane proteins that control ion movement of across cell membranes. The passage of ions through protein pores, defined by bundles of α-helices, is often controlled ("gated") by small molecules. These bind at sites on the protein that are distant from the central pore. Binding induces long‑range conformational change that opens or closes the central pore in the channel.
Creating synthetic channels that use small molecule-induced conformational change to control ion flow would be an exciting step towards treatments for channelopathies and bacterial infections. In this project we will use conformational switching in α-aminoisobutyric acid (Aib) foldamers (folded oligomers) to mimic this behaviour of natural ion channels. These peptide oligomers fold into helices and their conformation is very sensitive to molecular recognition at the N-terminus.[1] Aib foldamers that are at least two nanometres long have been shown to form multimeric ion channels in membranes,[2] so combining this ion channel activity with ligand-induced conformational change opens a pathway to synthetic conformationally gated channels.[3] Proposed channel designs include using (PEG-triazolyl)methylamino linkers to link together chiral Aib foldamers into bundles. Allosteric sites will be formed by complexing each bundle to zinc ions. Different chiral ligands, which complex to the zinc ion, will be screened for their ability to induce conformational change. This ability will then be correlated with ion channel activity.
This project is a unique opportunity to work in a new frontier of biomimetic supramolecular chemistry. It will provide the student with a wide range of training opportunities across the chemical sciences.
Eligibility
Applicants should have or expect a good II(i) or 1st class honours degree (or an equivalent degree) in Chemistry or a related discipline. Prior experience of catalysis and/or organic synthesis is advantageous but not essential.
Funding
This 3-year PhD is open to self-funded and externally funded applicants. The start date is October 2027.
At The University of Manchester, we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.
For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.
Before you apply
We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor to discuss the application before you apply. The email address for Prof. Webb is S.Webb@manchester.ac.uk.
We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.
How to apply
You will need to submit an online application through our website here: https://uom.link/pgr-apply
When you apply, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:
- Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
- Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
- CV
- You will be asked to supply contact details for two referees on the application form (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/ work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
- Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it.
- English Language certificate (if applicable). If you require an English qualification to study in the UK, you can apply now and send this in at a later date.
If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk
When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, how you’re planning on funding your research, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.
Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact. We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.
We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).
References
References: [1] Lister, F. G. A.; Le Bailly, B. A. F.; Webb, S. J.; Clayden, J. Nature Chem. 2017, 9, 420. [2] Jones, J. E.; Diemer, V.; Adam, C.; Raftery, J.; Ruscoe, R. E.; Sengel, J. T.; Wallace, M. I.; Bader, A.; Cockroft, S. L.; Clayden, J.; Webb, S. J. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2016, 138, 688. [3] Evans, R. Ll.; Martínez‑Crespo, L.; Doerner, B.; Gomila, R. M.; Whitehead, G. F. S.; Frontera, A.; Webb, S. J. ChemistryEurope 2026, DOI: 10.1002/ceur.202500195.
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