UK only

The 4-year PhD scholarship is open to applicants from the UK. The successful candidate will receive a tax-free annual salary set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual increase), and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the salary to increase every year. Start date is October 2026.

We recommend applying early as the advert will be removed once the position is filled.

Mammalian cells coordinate signals through interaction events on their surfaces. Proteoglycans are a complex part of these interactions and are large biomolecules consisting of a core protein and one or more glycosaminoglycan (GAG) modifications. Proteoglycans form a myriad of interactions with cellular receptors as well as soluble signaling molecules, and provide structural support in connective tissues such as cartilage. (1,2) Growth factors, neurotrophic factors, and chemokines can be recruited to target cells through GAG binding sites, making proteoglycans important determinants of development. (3,4) Thus, dysfunction of GAG biosynthesis causes severe phenotypes ranging from embryonic lethality to skeletal and muscle deficiencies. (5) Given their importance in mammalian physiology, new methods or tools that can identify and advance understanding of the structure of surrounding proteoglycans are of critical importance. This is where synthetic chemistry can play an essential role, by designing and implementing new sugar analogues (or tools) that trap the building blocks that are essential for proteoglycan biosynthesis. Building on the group’s previous work in the areas of glycosaminoglycan and sugar chemistry (https://millerresearchgroup.co.uk),(6-13) This collaborative PhD will involve the design and synthesis of novel polysaccharides in cages to enable their evaluation in relevant biological systems. You will receive training in organic synthesis, carbohydrate chemistry, enzymatic chemical synthesis, and molecular microbiology, all directed toward the design and development of chemical tools for understanding and manipulating proteoglycans in cells. Transferable skills such as reporting results verbally and in writing, time management and project planning and management will also be developed.

Applicants must have at least a 2.1 Honors degree or Master’s degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, or expect to obtain it.

To apply please contact your principal supervisor: Professor Gavin Miller – gavin.miller@manchester.ac.uk. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation for studying this PhD project.