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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in dynamic combinatorial chemistry for drug discovery.
- Company: Join a leading European network of universities, hospitals, and SMEs.
- Benefits: World-class training, international placements, and transferable skills development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biotechnology while gaining invaluable experience.
- Qualifications: UK 2:1 honours degree or Masters in Chemistry or related fields.
- Other info: Emphasises innovation, collaboration, and personal growth in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
INT2ACT unites leading universities, hospitals, SMEs, and pharmaceutical companies across Europe. As a doctoral candidate, you will receive world-class interdisciplinary training, including academic, industry, and hospital placements, plus courses in cutting-edge science and transferable skills.
Based in the School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, you will research the design and evaluation of novel ON systems. Dynamic combinatorial chemistry is emerging as a valuable tool in drug discovery, where suitable precursors are selected and amplified from a pool of interchanging molecules. This unique system will be extended to oligonucleotides, where you will develop the chemistries necessary to create dynamic combinatorial libraries of oligonucleotides (DCL ONs) which will respond to suitable templating. The project will include high level organic chemistry for the synthesis of tailored nucleoside analogues and development of analytical tools to study the system’s behaviour. Applications in sequencing, sensing and aptamer formation (targeting) will be pursued, leading to entirely novel systems for biotechnology.
Responsibilities include:
- Defining research questions
- Conducting independent research
- Collaborating with INT2ACT partners (including extended study periods abroad)
- Engaging in training
- Disseminating results in high-impact venues
You will work as part of an interdisciplinary team and develop a wide-ranging skill set. INT2ACT emphasizes both technological innovation and researcher development. Doctoral candidates will gain transferable skills in communication, data management, project organisation, collaboration, entrepreneurship, research ethics, and intersectoral exposure to real-world challenges.
Entry requirements:
- You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or Masters, or its international equivalent in one of the following or related disciplines: Chemistry or Chemical Biology
- A strong background in organic chemistry is strongly preferred
- You must fulfil the following Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network criteria: you must not yet been awarded a doctoral degree and be eligible to enrol in a PhD programme
- Mobility rule: At the time of recruitment (i.e. first date of employment), you must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc…) in the UK for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment under this project. Compulsory national service and/or short stays such as holidays are not taken into account.
- You should be able to start the job by May 2026 or soon thereafter.
In order to be considered for this post, please also complete the postgraduate application process. The funding for this PhD studentships is offered as part of the ON-TRACT network coordinated by Southampton; further information can be obtained from Dr Eugen Stulz (est@soton.ac.uk). Due to restrictions in international tuition fees, the projects are only available to candidates from the EU/EEA or certain associated countries.
Apply by uploading your CV and a cover letter detailing how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity. Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date.
For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.
Marie Sklodowska Curie Doctoral Network Fellow INT2ACT in Southampton employer: University of South Hampton
Contact Detail:
University of South Hampton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Marie Sklodowska Curie Doctoral Network Fellow INT2ACT in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past doctoral candidates in the INT2ACT network. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the programme!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into dynamic combinatorial chemistry. Brush up on recent advancements and think about how your background in organic chemistry can contribute to the project. We want to see your passion and knowledge shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your transferable skills! Whether it's communication, data management, or project organisation, make sure to highlight how these skills will help you thrive in an interdisciplinary team. We love candidates who can adapt and collaborate!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re all about making the process as smooth as possible for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Marie Sklodowska Curie Doctoral Network Fellow INT2ACT in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We want to see how your background in chemistry or chemical biology aligns with the research focus of the INT2ACT project.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for organic chemistry and any relevant projects you've worked on. We love seeing candidates who can connect their experiences to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Interdisciplinary Skills: Since this role involves collaboration with various partners, highlight any experience you have working in interdisciplinary teams. We value candidates who can demonstrate their ability to engage with different fields and contribute to innovative solutions.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Make sure to submit your CV and cover letter before the deadline, and double-check everything for clarity and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of South Hampton
✨Know Your Chemistry
Make sure you brush up on your organic chemistry knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques and concepts related to dynamic combinatorial chemistry, as well as how they apply to drug discovery. This will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be ready to talk about any independent research you've conducted. Highlight your ability to define research questions and how you've approached problem-solving in past projects. This is crucial for demonstrating that you can thrive in an interdisciplinary team environment.
✨Emphasise Transferable Skills
INT2ACT values a wide-ranging skill set, so don’t forget to mention your communication, data management, and project organisation skills. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others or tackled real-world challenges, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the INT2ACT network, the specific projects you'll be involved in, and opportunities for collaboration. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
