Disrupting oral biofilm formation & maturation: Covalently inhibiting glucan sucrases from Streptococci

Supervisory Team: Dr Seung Lee, Professor Jeremy Webb, Dr Rob Howlin, Dr David Bradshaw and Dr Ricarda Hawkins (Haleon, industry)

A fully-funded 4 year PhD studentship is available for research on oral biofilms and their effects on oral health. This multidisciplinary project will pioneer a novel approach to control the formation and maturation of biofilm within the oral microbiome, combining the latest chemical, molecular biological and microbiological methods.

Oral biofilms developing aggressively on dental surfaces are linked to numerous human oral illnesses and infections. Biofilms comprise a microbe-derived extracellular-matrix and with biofilm maturation, constituent matrix exopolysaccharides (EPS) formed on tooth surfaces can provide binding sites and an optimal environment for growth of microbes including harmful bacteria, leading to pathogenesis. It is thus crucial to understand the relationship between biofilm maturation and pathogenic process in the oral cavity.  

Formation and maturation of oral biofilms are affected by key enzymes. We will attempt to control this enzyme activity through using chemical probes and biological means. This multidisciplinary project combines a variety of expertise including carbohydrate chemistry, enzymology, molecular biology, and microbiology to provide an insight into the oral biofilm’s impact on the oral health in general. 

The project will be performed in Schools of Chemistry and Biological Sciences, and the National Biofilms Innovation Centre and benefited from the expertise of Haleon. As the project develops, there is an opportunity to conduct a 3-month placement with Haleon tailored to the interests of the student. A multidisciplinary supervisory team consist of Dr Seung Lee at School of Chemistry, Prof. Jeremy Webb, at School of Biological Sciences and the co-director of NBIC, and Dr Rob Howlin, Dr David Bradshaw and Dr Ricarda Hawkins with Haleon.

The studentship provides fees and stipends on a UKRI scale for four years and welcomes UK, EU and international applicants. We particularly encourage motivated and ambitious applicants with relevant background who are interested in chemistry/biology interface.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2025. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships nearmejobs.eu Doctoral College nearmejobs.eu University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online:  Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Chemistry. (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr Seung Lee

Applications should include:

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Chemistry is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.