PhD Studentship in Design, Synthesis and In Vitro Translation of Non-Canonical Amino Acids
Explore the frontiers of protein engineering through the design, synthesis, and translation of non-canonical amino acids.
Best for:Best for highly motivated chemistry or biochemistry graduates with a passion for synthetic biology and protein engineering, seeking hands-on experience in organic synthesis, molecular biology, and translational research.
Overview
This fully funded PhD position at The University of Manchester offers a multidisciplinary opportunity to advance protein functionality by designing, synthesizing, and translating non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs). The project integrates organic synthesis, chemical biology, and in vitro translation to expand the genetic code’s capabilities. You will develop new ncAAs, incorporate them into peptides and proteins, and study their biophysical properties and applications in chemical biology, therapeutics, and biomaterials. A key focus is glycosylated amino acids, which are critical for extracellular matrix biology and regenerative medicine. The project is co-supervised by Prof. Gavin J. Miller and Dr. Richard Obexer, providing a collaborative environment for cutting-edge research.
What you'll do
- Design and synthesize novel non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) to expand protein functionality.
- Develop methods for site-specific incorporation of ncAAs into peptides and proteins using cell-free protein synthesis platforms.
- Study the biophysical properties and reactivity of modified proteins for applications in chemical biology and therapeutics.
- Focus on glycosylated amino acids to probe their structural and biological consequences in extracellular matrix biology and regenerative medicine.
- Conduct organic and chemoenzymatic synthesis, molecular biology experiments, and in vitro translation studies.
- Develop transferable skills in project management, oral and written communication, and time management.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: A minimum of a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline (e.g., Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or related fields).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and communication in an English-speaking environment.
Instruction: English
- Strong background in organic synthesis and chemical biology.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques.
- Familiarity with cell-free protein synthesis platforms.
- Proficient in laboratory techniques for protein modification and analysis.
- Eligibility to pay tuition fees at the Home rate (UK residents or international students meeting specific criteria).
- No explicit age or residency restrictions beyond standard UKRI eligibility.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-27
Applicants should contact the main supervisor, Prof. Gavin Miller via email at gavin.miller@manchester.ac.uk. Include details of your current level of study, academic background, relevant experience, and a paragraph explaining your motivation for this PhD project. Apply early as the advert may close before the deadline.
- CV
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc, if applicable)
- Motivation letter or paragraph explaining interest in the project
- Proof of eligibility to pay Home tuition fees (if applicable)
Contact
Gavin Miller· Professor and Main Supervisor
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