Cancer Co-Therapy Using Nano and Micro Porous Engineered Materials

About the Project

Cancer is a major global challenge and the need to develop new and more effective therapies is essential. In recent times the co-delivery (2 or more compounds performing distinct biological functions e.g. drug and siRNA) of materials within a single drug delivery system has shown great promise. Furthermore, the ability control and manipulate the size of particle systems from <100nm to >500nm, in conjunction with particle complexity (e.g. nano-capsules or hollow particles), has further demonstrated greater potential for targeting and overcoming biological barriers. This PhD programme focuses on the design, formulation and assessment of co-therapy systems to target cancer. Using advanced state-of-the-art through advanced materials (e.g. porous materials such as silica or graphene) and/or advanced engineering methods and concepts (e.g. novel spraying or microfluidic technology). Projects will focus on the design, development, analysis and function of particle based nano and micro drug delivery systems. Further, detailed analysis using in vitro, in silico and potential ex-vivo assessments will provide greater insights and developmental platforms.

Advanced testing will be taken in conjunction with research collaborators nationally and internationally. Projects will comprise a multidisciplinary academic team (and candidate) will benefit from the state-of-the-art and pioneering research facilities at University of Manchester.

Access to specialised equipment, such as electron microscopy, spectrophotometers, bioimaging facilities, biological services and formulation analysis; will support materials development, characterisation, release kinetics and biological testing. Successful candidates will learn a wide range of analytical techniques (e.g. ATR-FTIR, HPLC, UV-Vis, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Oscillatory Rheology) and other material characterisation (Electron Microscopy (SEM, TEM), AFM and X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS)). Candidates will also be encouraged (under the direction of the supervisory team) to participate in meetings with SME/commercial entities during the project.

These cutting-edge projects are aimed to distil a high level of knowledge and know-how for incoming candidates to facilitate their career in the biomaterial and pharmaceutical remits.

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum 2:1 Bachelors Degree with Honours (or equivalent) in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a related subject. A Master’s degree in a relevant field and/or experience in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical technologies, Drug delivery, Industrial pharmacy, or a related area is desirable but not essential. Candidates should also demonstrate a strong willingness to learn across various scientific disciplines.

Eligibility

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a minimum Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.

How to Apply

To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form – on the application form select PhD Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Programme. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Website: How to apply for postgraduate research at The University of Manchester

If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FBMH.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website: Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI | Postgraduate Research | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester)

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 2 (med) fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website