PhD Studentship: Convergent Access to Fused Polycyclic Alkaloids by Gold-Triggered Cascading Cycloa

A gold-catalysed cascade reaction developed in the Davies group provides rapid and efficient access into complex 3D and sp3-rich molecular architectures. The researcher on this project will explore and develop this route to provide rapid access into fused alkaloid-like heterocyclic scaffolds bearing several points of diversity. The selective transformation of these core structures into different scaffolds will be investigated followed by develop novel compound libraries by elaborating at the incorporated points of diversity. The researcher will develop skills in catalysis and reaction optimisation, structure-reactivity relationships and multi-step synthesis.

This position is one of six available as part of the iDesign project which will use cutting-edge organic synthesis methods to prepare novel libraries of architecturally and functionally diverse, three-dimensional molecules, which possess desirable physicochemical properties for drug discovery. In addition to their research project, the researcher will undertake multidisciplinary training in diverse aspects of early-stage drug discovery. Delivered by experts from academia and industry, this training will ensure the appointed researcher graduates with the knowledge and skills to set new agendas that will inform the future directions of drug discovery.

This project will be a collaboration between the Davies group at the University of Birmingham (UK) and Mercachem B.V. (The Netherlands) and the researcher will spend equal time at both institutions taking advantage of the leading specialist facilities and expertise at each site. Candidates should have an interest in structure and function, multi-step synthesis, method development and transition-metal catalysis.

The period of the PhD registration will be 36 months in total; based for 18 months at The University of Birmingham and the remaining 18 months at the industry partner.

 

Funding Notes

The salary will be at the EU Marie Curie Rate of £31,610 per annum. Additional Allowances may be available subject to individual circumstances. 

By the start of their appointment, applicants should have obtained a strong Masters degree in Chemistry and not already be in possession of a PhD.