PhD Studentship: Biorelevant Metal Complexes as Potential Hypoxic Activated Prodrugs for the Treatment of Cancer
Job Description
Job Summary
Supervisor: Dr. Rianne M. Lord
Funding: 3.5 years of home fees and stipend funded by the University of Warwick (available only to UK home students).
Eligibility: Overseas applicants are welcome to apply but must secure additional funding to cover the difference between home and international tuition fees.
Deadline: Open until a suitable candidate is found. Early applications are encouraged.
Project Overview
Platinum-based drugs have been widely used in cancer treatment for over 40 years. However, their effectiveness is often limited due to severe side effects, lack of selectivity for cancer cells, and increasing drug resistance. This project seeks to develop alternative transition metal-based therapies that can overcome these challenges by utilizing different intracellular mechanisms and producing non-toxic prodrugs that become active only in cancer environments.
The research will focus on biorelevant metallodrugs, particularly vanadium-based complexes. Vanadium shows promising anticancer properties and can exist in multiple oxidation states, allowing fine-tuning of its biological activity. However, its potential as a hypoxia-activated prodrug (HAP) has been hindered by issues of stability and solubility. To address this, the project will design novel vanadium complexes, integrate them into polymer systems, and investigate their redox properties in cancer cells.
Training & Research Environment
The successful candidate will join the Lord Group in the Department of Chemistry at Warwick. They will receive comprehensive training in:
- Synthesis and characterization of metal complexes and polymers
- Cell culture techniques to assess cellular response and drug activity
- Advanced analytical methods using Warwick’s state-of-the-art Research Technology Platforms
- Collaborative research with Warwick Medical School and the School of Life Sciences
Additionally, the candidate will be encouraged to attend national and international conferences to present findings, expand their research network, and enhance career development.
Candidate Requirements
Applicants should have at least a 2.1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in chemistry or a related discipline. While prior experience in biology is not required, a strong interest in drug discovery and chemical biology is essential.
Application Process
Interested candidates should email Dr. Rianne Lord (Rianne.Lord@warwick.ac.uk) with:
- A copy of their CV
- A cover letter outlining their research interests and motivation for applying
Further details on the formal application process can be found at Warwick’s postgraduate application page.
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking cancer research while gaining valuable interdisciplinary training at one of the UK’s top research institutions. Apply now to be part of this exciting project!
