A biocompatible catalyst for in vivo drug synthesis targeting subcellular organelles

Copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC), a prototypical bioorthogonal reaction, has been widely utilized in drug design and synthesis. However, for localized drug synthesis, determining the site of drug synthesis is crucial. Studies have shown that the CuAAC reaction can occur within living cells. Therefore, in this study, we aim to construct a metal-organic framework (MOF) carrier. By employing computational chemistry, we will simulate its interaction with the catalyst and its ability to penetrate cell membranes, optimizing its properties. This approach aims to achieve localized in vivo drug synthesis, providing valuable insights for enhancing drug targeting and reducing toxicity to normal cells.

For more information about doctoral scholarship and PhD programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), please visit:

https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/global/entry-requirements/

https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/global/fees-and-scholarship

Supervisors:

• Principal supervisor: Professor Heechae Choi (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor Li Yang (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Dr. Gemma Nixon (UoL)

Requirements:

The candidate should have a first class or upper second class honours degree, or a master’s degree (or equivalent qualification), in Chemistry or Pharmaceutical Science related programmes.

Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English. This position is open to all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality.

Degree:

The student will be awarded a PhD degree from the University of Liverpool (UK) upon successful completion of the program.

Funding:

The PhD studentship is available for three years subject to satisfactory progress by the student. The award covers tuition fees for three years (currently equivalent to RMB 99,000 per annum). It also provides up to RMB 16,500 to allow participation at international conferences during the period of the award. The scholarship holder is expected to carry out the major part of his or her research at XJTLU in Suzhou, China. However, he or she is eligible for a research study visit to the University of Liverpool up to six months, if this is required by the project.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are advised to email heechae.choi@xjtlu.edu.cn the following documents for initial review and assessment (please put the project title in the subject line).

• CV
• Two formal reference letters
• Personal statement outlining your interest in the position
• Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent)
• Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available

Contact:

Please email heechae.choi@xjtlu.edu.cn with a subject line of the PhD project title.

The principal supervisor’s profile is linked here: https://scholar.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/persons/HeechaeChoi