Website The University of Southampton
About the project
Despite their importance in driving disease, identifying compounds that bind and regulate membrane protein function can be extremely challenging. In this project, we will develop a high-throughput screening platform that utilises a mammalian two-hybrid system for the identification of modulators of membrane proteins.
We are seeking an outstanding student with an interest in chemical biology and mammalian cell biology to work on an industrially sponsored project to develop a platform for the identification of membrane protein modulators. Targeting membrane proteins in drug discovery is extremely challenging. In this project, we will develop a new screening platform for the identification of therapeutic binders of membrane proteins, using a mammalian two-hybrid system. This platform will significantly accelerate the discovery of molecules that bind and modulate membrane proteins.
The project will involve constructing the mammalian two-hybrid system, ad using it to screen a library of mini-proteins for active molecules. These compounds will serve as the starting point for the development of potential therapeutics. The project is sponsored in part by UCB and will involve working closely with our pharma partners.
The project provides an excellent opportunity to receive high-quality training in a range of techniques at the chemistry/biology interface, especially mammalian cell engineering. The project will be conducted in the Tavassoli lab, in state of the art multidisciplinary laboratories, facilities and equipment at the School of Chemistry, University of Southampton.
The School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
Entry requirements
You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent in life science disciplines.
Ideally you will have prior experience with mammalian cell culture.
Fees and funding
We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.
Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered. For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- search for programme PhD Chemistry (7189)
- add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
Applications should include:
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- degree transcripts and certificates to date
- English language qualification (if applicable)
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, email our doctoral college (feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk).
Project leader
If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Professor Ali Tavassoli (ali1@soton.ac.uk).
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