The University of Hull is offering one UK/EU PhD Scholarship (or International Fees Bursary) for candidates applying for this project
Supervisors: Professor David J. Evans (david.evans@hull.ac.uk) 01482 466766 Department of Chemistry.
This project will develop the use of plant virus-like particles (VLPs) as targeted carriers of therapeutic agents for treatments including magnetic field hyperthermia. The highly localized heating for this treatment will be achieved through the application of an appropriately tuned alternating magnetic field to tissue containing magnetic nanoparticles, leading to localised cell heating and death. For effective treatment the nanoparticles should be biocompatible, safe for human metabolism, fall within an optimal size range for effective heat transfer and be enclosed in an appropriate carrier and targeting device – both achieved using VLPs as a functionalisable protein cage within which the magnetic nanoparticles can be nucleated and grown. Forms of the VLPsâ coat protein can be assembled with inner diameters of 14, 20 and 24 nm. These offer a uniquely well-defined template for the synthesis of virus-encapsulated magnetic nanoparticles with a range of precisely defined sizes. The VLPs also have specific functional groups on the external surface enabling attachment of different chemical and biological moieties to target specific cell types. Other approaches to the use of VLPs for targeted drug delivery and for applications as imaging agents can also be explored. The project is interdisciplinary and sits at the interface of chemistry, biology, nanoscience and biomedicine.
This full-time UK/EU PhD Scholarship will include fees at the âhome/EU’ student rate and maintenance (£13,726 in 2013/14, subject to final confirmation) for three years, depending on satisfactory progress.
(Full-time International Fee PhD Studentships will include full fees at the International student rate for three years, (without maintenance) dependant on satisfactory progress.)
PhD students at the University of Hull follow modules for research and transferable skills development and gain a Masters level Certificate, or Diploma, in Research Training, in addition to their research degree.
To apply for this post please click on the ‘Apply’ button below.
Closing Date: 30th November 2013. The successful applicant will be informed of the award by 20th December 2013. The studentships will start in February or April 2014 .