This PhD project at The University of Manchester focuses on developing advanced polymers to extract and stabilise membrane proteins, which constitute 20–30% of all human proteins and are crucial for drug discovery. Membrane proteins are challenging to study due to their low solubility, but nanodisc-forming polymers, especially those based on styrene/maleic anhydride (SMALPS), have shown promise in solubilising and stabilising these proteins and their associated lipids. The aim of the project is to improve the performance of these polymers, enabling faster and more efficient protein extraction and greater tolerance to various buffers and salts.

The research will employ modern synthetic polymer chemistry techniques, including high-throughput synthesis, alongside protein biochemistry. The successful candidate will join the GibsonGroup, which offers state-of-the-art synthetic polymer laboratories (established in 2023), microbiology and tissue culture facilities within the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, and access to dedicated equipment such as automation platforms, benchtop NMR, confocal microscopy, and biolayer interferometry.

The group fosters a collaborative and supportive environment for PhD students. Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in Chemistry or a closely related discipline, with a strong background in synthetic chemistry, polymer chemistry, or biochemistry.

The position is funded for 3.5 years, with excellent candidates nominated for competence-based faculty funding. The University of Manchester offers a wide range of scholarships, studentships, and awards for both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers. Application deadlines for funding are 19th December 2025 and, if places remain, 13th March 2026. The start date is October 2026, but early application is recommended as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

To apply, candidates should first contact Professor Gibson by email with a CV, then submit an online application specifying the project title, supervisor, funding status, previous study details, and referee contacts. Supporting documents required include transcripts, certificates, a supporting statement, and referee contact details. The university values equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from all backgrounds, including those returning from career breaks or seeking flexible study arrangements.