A fully funded PhD studentship is available in the Department of Chemistry at Imperial College London, supervised by Associate Professor Louise Walport. The project focuses on chemical biology, specifically the discovery of cyclic peptides and the development of novel enzymatic methods for sustainable peptide synthesis. The research will involve bioinformatics approaches to discover new ligases and enzymes, directed evolution to improve enzyme activity, and process optimization for peptide production. Training will be provided in organic chemistry, biochemistry, protein engineering, enzyme characterisation, and related techniques. The studentship is open to UK home fee status students with a strong background in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or a related discipline. The successful candidate will receive full tuition coverage and a UKRI London-weighted stipend for 3.5 years. Applicants should demonstrate scientific curiosity and a willingness to work in a multidisciplinary environment. To apply, candidates should send a CV and a one-page letter of motivation to the supervisor by 17 November 2025. More information about the group’s research and the application process can be found on the Imperial College Chemistry Department website.

A fully funded PhD studentship is available in the group of Associate Professor Louise Walport at the Chemistry Department, Imperial College London, with an entry date of October 2026. The research focuses on chemical biology, specifically the discovery and development of cyclic peptides as chemical tools to study and modulate the activity of peptidylarginine deiminase IV (PADI4), an enzyme implicated in autoimmunity, cancer, and other diseases. The project will involve advanced techniques in peptide chemistry, molecular biology, and biochemistry, with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of post-translational modifications and enzyme regulation. The studentship is open to strong UK home fee candidates and provides full tuition coverage and a UKRI-level London-weighted stipend for 3.5 years. Applicants should have a strong academic background in chemistry, chemical biology, or a related discipline, and should submit a CV and a one-page motivation letter to express their interest. The group has a track record of impactful research, as evidenced by recent publications, and offers a supportive environment for doctoral training. For more information, candidates are encouraged to review the provided links and contact Dr. Walport directly.