At a Glance
- Tasks: Join groundbreaking research in biocatalysis and sustainable bioprocess development.
- Company: The University of Manchester, a leader in innovative chemistry research.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD with tuition coverage and a tax-free stipend.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for interdisciplinary research and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in pharmaceuticals and synthetic biology while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: First-class honours or good 2:1 in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
This fully funded PhD studentship at The University of Manchester’s Department of Chemistry offers a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research in biocatalysis and sustainable bioprocess development. The project focuses on the design and optimisation of enzymatic pathways for the production of nucleoside triphosphates, key building blocks for DNA and RNA synthesis with applications in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and synthetic biology. The research aims to develop efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly processes leveraging biocatalytic strategies, mechanistic enzyme understanding, and modern bioprocess engineering.
Students will gain experience in molecular biology, enzymology, fermentation, process optimisation, and analytical chemistry, within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that bridges academia and industry.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a first-class honours degree (or equivalent) or a good 2:1 in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a closely related discipline. Strong academic performance and a demonstrable interest in enzymology, molecular biology, and sustainable bioprocessing are essential.
Required Expertise, Skills
The ideal candidate will have practical experience or strong interest in laboratory techniques such as enzyme assays, recombinant protein expression, purification methods, chromatography, and analytical characterization. Familiarity with bioprocess development principles, experimental design, and data analysis will support success in the project. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team are essential.
Salary Details
The studentship includes full tuition fee coverage and an annual tax-free stipend at the UKRI standard rate, supporting the researcher throughout the four-year PhD programme.
Application Deadline
Applications close on 17 March 2026.
PhD Studentship – Bioprocess: Harnessing Biocatalysis Toward Next-Generation Nucleoside Triphos[...] in Manchester employer: RFCSR
At King’s College London, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our interdisciplinary approach not only encourages professional growth through diverse research opportunities but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in the fields of engineering and biomedical research. Located in the vibrant city of London, our institution offers a dynamic environment where creativity thrives and employees are supported in their career development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship – Bioprocess: Harnessing Biocatalysis Toward Next-Generation Nucleoside Triphos[...] in Manchester
✨Get Your Foot in the Lab Door
Look for internship programmes specifically set up for life sciences or biotechnology students. Many companies, including RFCSR, offer structured pathways for interns, so check their careers page or your university's career services to snag those early opportunities.
✨Connect with Researchers and Alumni
Tap into biotechnology-focused online communities, such as LinkedIn groups or local biotech meetups. Networking with seasoned professionals or alumni from your university can give you an inside track on internships that may not be widely advertised. A little conversation can go a long way!
✨Get Involved in Research Projects
If you haven’t already, volunteer for or participate in research projects at your university. This hands-on experience not only builds your CV but also helps you make connections with faculty who can recommend you or point you to internship opportunities at companies like RFCSR.
✨Keep Your Application Needs in Mind
When you're ready to apply, make sure your online portfolio reflects relevant projects and any lab techniques you’re familiar with. Showcasing your understanding of biotechnology, particularly what relates to the work done at RFCSR, can help you stand out from the heap of applicants!
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship – Bioprocess: Harnessing Biocatalysis Toward Next-Generation Nucleoside Triphos[...] in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Lab Skills:For a biotech internship, showcasing any relevant lab skills is crucial. If you've worked with lab techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or CRISPR, make sure these stand out in your CV. We want to see that you have hands-on experience and can contribute from day one.
Share Your Academic Projects:Don't forget to mention any academic projects related to biotechnology. If you've conducted research or completed projects that involved analysis or experimentation, highlight these in your cover letter. It shows us your practical understanding of biotech concepts and your motivation to learn more.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, focus on your passion for biotechnology and your eagerness to learn. Use this space to explain why you want to intern with RFCSR specifically and how this experience aligns with your career goals. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Include Relevant Coursework:Make sure to list any relevant coursework on your CV. Classes like Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or Bioinformatics can really make you stand out. We want to see that you've got the foundational knowledge, as it helps us gauge how easily you'll adapt to our projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
As we're diving into the biotechnology world, it's essential to refresh your knowledge on commonly used lab techniques. Be prepared to discuss methods like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and CRISPR. They might even ask you to explain the principles behind them or how you've used them in your studies!
✨Show Your Passion for Bioscience
Internships are all about eagerness to learn and grow, so let your enthusiasm for biotechnology shine through! Share any relevant projects, coursework, or volunteer experiences that showcase your motivation and dedication to the field. This will show RFCSR that you're not just looking for any gig, but you're genuinely excited about contributing to their research.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In a biotech internship interview, be ready for scenarios that test your problem-solving skills. For example, how would you handle a contamination issue in an experiment? Practising these types of questions will help you demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability, which are key traits for any budding biotechnologist.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Biotechnology often involves collaboration, so emphasising your ability to work in a team is crucial. Think about group projects or lab work where you collaborated with peers. Sharing these experiences will show RFCSR that you're not only a great individual contributor but also a team player, ready to thrive in their collaborative environment.
