Project: Developing Drug Discovery Technologies
Supervisors: Prof Darren Tomlinson and Dr C. Tiede
About the PhD
The University of Leeds is offering a fully funded PhD scholarship in Molecular and Cellular Biology, providing an opportunity to work at the intersection of phage display, protein engineering and drug discovery.
The project aims to develop new technologies for identifying druggable pockets on target proteins. Working in collaboration with a major pharmaceutical company, the successful candidate will develop experimental methods and processes that could help improve the drug discovery pipeline and support the development of new therapeutics.
Research Focus
The PhD will focus on developing technologies that can help researchers identify potential sites on proteins that may be targeted by drugs.
A major component of the research will involve phage display and protein engineering, providing the candidate with hands‑on experience in modern molecular and biochemical approaches used in drug discovery.
The research will also involve collaboration with industry, giving the student exposure to how academic research can contribute to the development of practical drug discovery technologies.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Develop and optimise experimental methods for drug discovery.
- Work with phage display and protein engineering technologies.
- Investigate therapeutic protein targets and potential druggable sites.
- Design and conduct molecular and biochemical experiments.
- Analyse and interpret experimental data.
- Develop new techniques and workflows to support drug discovery.
- Contribute to research conducted in collaboration with an industry partner.
- Maintain accurate experimental records and research documentation.
- Present research findings to academic and industry audiences.
- Contribute to scientific publications and research outputs.
- Participate in relevant training and activities within the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Qualifications and Skills Required
Applicants should normally hold an undergraduate degree with at least a 2:1 classification, or an equivalent qualification, in a relevant subject.
Relevant academic backgrounds may include:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Biological Sciences
- Cell Biology
- Structural Biology
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Related life science disciplines
Master’s degree is desirable but not essential.
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong interest in drug discovery and therapeutic development.
- An interest in protein science, molecular biology or biochemistry.
- Good scientific and analytical skills.
- An ability to plan and conduct research independently.
- Strong attention to detail and accurate laboratory practice.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- The ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary research team.
- Enthusiasm for developing new experimental approaches.
Previous laboratory experience in protein engineering, phage display, molecular biology, biochemistry or related techniques would be beneficial.
Funding Details
One full scholarship is available for a UK candidate.
The award covers:
- UK tuition fees
- Maintenance stipend of £21,805 for 2026/27
- Bench and research costs
- Funding for up to four years, subject to satisfactory academic progress
The scholarship is initially awarded for one year and can be renewed for up to three additional years.
The successful candidate must take up the award by 1 February 2027.
Applicants must also live within a reasonable distance of the University of Leeds while receiving the scholarship.
Eligibility
This scholarship is only open to applicants eligible to pay tuition fees at the UK Home rate.
Applicants must not already hold a doctoral degree or currently be studying for a PhD.
If English is not your first language, you must meet the University of Leeds’ English language requirements. The stated minimum requirement for postgraduate research in the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is IELTS 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component, or an accepted equivalent qualification.
For more Phage-related, PhD opportunities, check here
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PhD in Developing Drug Discovery Technologies at the University of Leeds employer: The Phage
The University of Salford offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers in the field of bacteriophage therapy, providing a collaborative environment with leading institutions like the University of Liverpool and the University of Limerick. With a strong focus on advancing oral health through innovative research, the university fosters a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and development, while also contributing to meaningful solutions for global health challenges. This PhD position not only allows for hands-on laboratory experience but also promotes collaboration across disciplines, making it an ideal setting for those passionate about tackling antimicrobial resistance.
