PhD Studentship: Engineering Protein Nanocages for Biotechnology
Develop bioengineered protein nanocages for targeted therapeutics, diagnostics, and biocatalysis applications.
Best for:Best for biochemistry or biotechnology graduates with strong laboratory skills in protein purification and analytics.
Overview
This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia investigates the engineering of bacterial and human ferritins as versatile nanocage platforms. Based within the Le Brun lab in the School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, the project focuses on encapsulating small molecules, peptides, and proteins for advanced biotechnology and medical uses. The successful candidate will optimize encapsulation methods and study substrate and electron transfer across protein shells. Applicants will receive comprehensive training in multidisciplinary protein biochemistry, spectroscopy, and advanced microscopy techniques.
What you'll do
- Design and execute protein engineering strategies using bacterial and human ferritins as platforms
- Optimize methodologies for encapsulating small molecules, peptides, and enzymes inside protein shells
- Investigate substrate, electron, and proton transfer mechanisms across the protein coat
- Perform protein purification, bioanalytical assays, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and microscopy
- Analyze experimental data and collaborate effectively within the multidisciplinary Le Brun research group
- Contribute to scientific reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or UK equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6 in each category, or Faculty of Science equivalent
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated practical experience in protein biochemistry or a closely related field
- Familiarity with protein purification techniques
- Strong background in bioanalytical methods and spectroscopy
- Ability to manage an independent multidisciplinary research project
- Open to applicants meeting the academic and English language entry standards for a UK doctoral program
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Candidates should review the entry requirements and submit their application through the official University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal. Informal enquiries can be directed to Professor Nick Le Brun via email.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
Nick Le Brun· Professor
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