MSc (Masters by Research), 12 Months duration, Full-Time
Funding
This is a fees-only studentship (UK rate fees only / all laboratory & reagent costs are paid by the School of Life, Sport and Social Sciences) over 12 months.
Project Reference PG1SE
Area of Research
Computational Biological Chemistry, Drug Design, Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Project Description
This project is based in the computational biological chemistry research group of Dr Stefan Erhardt. The interactions of small molecules with enzymes will be investigated. Inhibition mechanisms of known drugs are studied to gain deeper insight into their mode of action and to develop novel more potent inhibitors with potentially less side effects.Â
The long-term usage of ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can lead to gastric adverse effects. On the other hand some drugs which were prescribed in the past could lead to a higher heart attack risk. Particularly patients who suffer from arthritis would benefit from the development of novel anti-inflammatory drugs. However, recent studies have also indicated the importance of NSAIDs in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
The results of computational study will be used to synthesise novel compounds and then test their biological activity.
Computational modelling techniques such as molecular docking, density functional theory, molecular dynamic and QM/MM calculations will be employed. No prior knowledge of computational biology is required. A strong biochemical background would be beneficial. Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline.
Contact Dr Stefan Erhardt (S.Erhardt@napier.ac.uk) for more information.Â
Start Date: 1 February 2016
Application Deadline: Â All applications must be received by Wednesday 16 December 2015.