Chemical Biology, Diagnostics & Therapeutics

Location:  Highfield Campus
Closing Date:  Friday 17 December 2021
Reference:  1561221EB

Identification and development of cyclic peptide libraries containing non-natural amino acids

Supervisory Team:    Profs Ali Tavassoli

Project description

We are seekign an outstanding applicant to work on an industrially-sponsored chemical biology project to develop methods for incorporating non-natural amino acids into genetically encoded cyclic peptide libraries. 

The Tavassoli lab have pioneered methods for the generation and screening of cyclic peptide libraries. The approach, called SICLOPPS, has led to the identification and development of a number of first in class inhibitors; for a review see: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1367593116301818 

In this project, we will use a number of chemical biology techniques to develop methods that enable the incorporation of non-natural amino acids into SICLOPPS libraries. The project provides an excellent opportunity to receive high-quality training in a range of techniques at the chemistry/biology interface. The project will be conducted in the Tavassoli lab, in close collaboration with Curve Therapeutics, using state of the art multidisciplinary laboratories, facilities and equipment. This project provides a unique opportunity to work closely with a biotechnology company on a drug discovery project. 

The ideal candidate will have prior lab-based experience of chemical biology, microfluidics and/or synthetic organic chemistry. However, experience in all these areas isn’t essential, and appropriate training will be provided to the successful candidate as part of their PhD. 

More information about the Tavassoli lab can be found on the University of Southampton website:

https://www.southampton.ac.uk/chemistry/about/staff/ali1.page 

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Ali Tavassoli, Email: ali1@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 17 December 2021 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £15,609 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years. 

How To Apply

Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2021/22, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD  Chemistry (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Ali Tavassoli 

Applications should include: 

• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk