As part of the EU ITN PhD program Sweet Crosstalk (https://sweetcrosstalk.eu/) you will develop chemical tools and analytical methods with which to assess carbohydrate/carbohydrate-binding protein interactions with pathogenic microorganisms. Through engagement with Sweet Crosstalk partners, you will identify and prioritise carbohydrates and proteins for evaluation. Your goal will be to devise practical detection methods, suitable for use in point-of-care diagnostics, and that both detect and distinguish between pathogens. As such, the project would suit someone with a background in chemistry or a related subject and who is keen to work across disciplines and to embrace the challenges and opportunities of developing new tools, approaches and products for infectious diseases R+D.

During your PhD project you will receive training and acquire expertise across carbohydrate and bioconjugation chemistry, structural characterisation techniques (HPLC, NMR, MS), nanoparticle technology, ELISA and lateral flow assay development, and microbiology. In addition, to science R+D, working with Iceni Diagnostics will provide awareness of translational and market research, commercialisation activities, diagnostics test development and validation. As part of wider ITN training, you will take part in one or more extended placements (up to 3 months) at collaborator sites to gain insight into carbohydrate structural analysis (Naples), as well as more regular engagement with local collaborators at the Quadram Institute (microbiology) and UEA (analytical chemistry).

Informal enquiries may be directed to info@icenidiagnostics.com or Prof. Nathalie Juge – nathalie.juge@quadram.ac.uk

Funding Notes

Studentship ref: JUGEQ19ICESC

This project is awarded with a 3-year PhD scholarship through the Sweet Crosstalk ITN Programme. EU applicants are eligible to apply who have not been based in the UK for more than 12 months in the last 3 years. For Sweet Crosstalk programme, funding information & eligibility criteria please visit: https://sweetcrosstalk.eu/

Tuition fees are covered for UK/EU rate only (£4,327.00 2019/0 rate). A living salary will be provided for each year of the scholarship.