The transport of anions across cell membranes is crucial to many biological processes. The failure of naturally occurring anion channels is the cause of a number of diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF). We are interested in developing synthetic anion receptors that can function as anion transporters in phospholipid bilayers as it may be possible to apply these molecules as channel replacement therapies for the treatment of diseases such as CF. We have also observed that anion transporters commonly exhibit anti-cancer action in vitro, and are investigating the potential of synthetic anion transporters as new anti-cancer therapies.
The focus of this studentship will be to identify and design new and optimized hydrogen bonding motifs in the design of new anion transporters with particular emphasis on designs which are likely to have desirable absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties. The candidate will evaluate the anion binding and transport properties of these new receptors, and the application of the most successful designs to living systems in vitro will be explored.
A fully funded 3 year PhD studentship in supramolecular chemistry is available with Prof Phil Gale at the University of Southampton in the area of transmembrane anion transport by synthetic ionophores.
Due to funding restrictions, this position is available to UK applicants only.
Administrative contact and how to apply:
Please complete the University’s online application form, which you can find via the ‘Apply’ button below:
You should enter Prof P Gale as your proposed supervisor. Please direct any enquiries about this procedure to pgafnes@soton.ac.uk
Closing Date:Â Â Saturday 31 August 2013