PhD Studentship: Novel Catalytic Homologation Strategies for Drug Discovery

Application deadline: 09/02/2026
Research theme: "Organic Chemistry", "Catalysis", "Synthesis", "Drug Discovery"

This 4-year PhD studentship is open to Home (UK) applicants. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual uplift), and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. EU students with settled or pre-settled status and international student can apply but their application eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The start date is October 2026.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

Homologation is one of the most important molecular modification strategies employed in medicinal chemistry campaigns. The homologation of lead compounds often has a profound impact on their physicochemical properties and biological activity. In collaboration with colleagues at AstraZeneca, we will design novel homologation strategies for use in drug discovery programs using visible light-mediated catalysis. We are particularly focused on leveraging biomimetic pathways for the homologation of amines.

This is an industry-funded organic chemistry project focused on methodology development, providing excellent all-round training in practical organic synthesis with particular emphasis on contemporary photochemistry. You gain extensive experience in analytical and characterisation techniques with state-of-the-art facilities (NMR, X-ray, possibly EPR, HRMS, IR, UV/Vis etc.), structural elucidation, and mechanistic studies.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated researcher to join our vibrant research team and work closely with researchers in both academia and industry. The project will be carried out at the University of Manchester, with the opportunity of a 3-month placement at AstraZeneca in the UK. The student will also benefit from wider training and development opportunities, including weekly problem sessions, departmental seminars from world-renowned academics, and attendance and participation at conferences. This will provide you with the opportunity to present your research and engage with scientists from around the world.

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

To apply, please contact the main supervisor Dr Aaron Trowbridge - aaron.trowbridge@manchester.ac.uk. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

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