PhD Studentship: Application of Thermally Stimulated Current (TSC) Spectroscopy for Qualitative and Quantitative Characterisation of Amorphous Pharmaceutical Systems

With the increase in the portfolio of poorly soluble drugs within the pharmaceutical industry the amorphous phase looks like a plausible approach to successfully bring these important drug candidates to market. However, amorphous pharmaceuticals are difficult to control as the current understanding of these materials is limited. One reason for this is that the amorphous phase is inherently difficult to characterise and/or predict. While current techniques are capable of probing specific attributes, there is no simple technique that allows an effective understanding of these systems below the glass transition temperature (Tg). This PhD will exploit the unique capabilities of Thermally Stimulated Current (TSC) spectroscopy to characterise amorphous drug substances, which may also include excipients and final products. Therefore, this project aims to develop selective and sensitive TSC methodologies to address common characterisation and quantification challenges experienced with full and partially amorphous (semi-crystalline) drug substances. This would then be used to better evaluate the suitability of amorphous materials throughout the whole drug development until launch and beyond.

This investigation should facilitate the understanding of these amorphous materials by identifying some correlation to physical properties and behaviours. Ideally, the main aim of the project is to start a database in which amorphous properties and behaviours could be correlated to processability and amorphous content (%). This database may contain many experimental manufacturing considerations and characterisation aspects with the inclusion of TSC results. The proposed work will contribute to advancing knowledge of amorphous and semi-crystalline systems in the solid-state, materials science and pharmaceutical industries and communities. The TSC methodologies developed in this proposal will result in an enhanced understanding of amorphous pharmaceuticals and the ability to differentiate different amorphous phases. In the long-term, this should afford better understanding and control of intentionally generated amorphous materials during drug development. It is anticipated that the research will deliver several high-impact papers and therefore contribute to a wider understanding of amorphous materials and the TSC technique.

Supervisors: Dr Milan Antonijevic and Dr David Watson

Entry requirements

Open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees. See UKCISA for further information.
Starting in September 2024.

You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our Chemistry PhD programme.

Usually, you should hold a first-class, upper second class (or international equivalent) Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in chemistry, material science, pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacy, physics, chemical engineering or a related subject. Ideally you will have experience (or at least a strong interest) in materials/solid state characterisation. Postgraduate applicants whose final year of study was completed at a UK higher education institute do not have to provide further evidence of English Language.

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via the Chemistry PhD programme page.

In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor.

Funding

The funding offer includes 3.5 years of stipend (currently £18,622 p/a) and tuition fees (at UK/home level) as well as travel allowance to attend (international) conferences. International applicants are welcome to apply but must identify a source to cover the difference between international and home tuition fees.

Application deadline: 1 July 2024

Enquiries: Contact Dr Milan Antonijevic

Ref: PGR-2324-031

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