The project builds on the recent discovery of a new series of antileishmanial compounds. In this UK-India collaborative project, that brings together chemistry, pharmaceutics, formulation science, parasitology and medical anthropology, we aim build on these to develop novel antileishmanial compounds with better modes of administration. We will use state-of-the-art crystallisation and formulation technologies to enable new oral and topical delivery methods for each compound. This key aspect will be directed by community engagement within endemic communities and local health care professionals to define what makes a drug acceptable to the affected populations.

This post will play a key role in this consortium designing and delivering new enhanced active compounds, with appropriate physicochemical profiles, that will underpin the pharmaceutics and formulation science. For this we require a talented synthetic chemist / chemical biologist to undertake all aspects of the small molecule synthetic work and to liaise with formulation and drug delivery scientists in the UK and overseas.

We are seeking an experienced Postdoctoral Researcher with outstanding synthetic and analytical skills. The primary technical responsibilities will be the design and synthesis of new and novel analogues of the lead compounds. In addition, the postholder will conduct the initial in vitro biological assays to assess activity and physicochemical performance. Training in these assays will be provided if required. The post holder will analyse and interpret data, prepare written and oral reports on progress. They will also supervise PhD and MChem students in the laboratory and oversee routine maintenance on local instrumentation and liaise with equipment service professionals. Other activities include the following.