[Maintenance grant of £21,500 per annum plus tuition fees at UK/home rate. Non-UK applicants must fund the overseas fee differential or secure a suitable scholarship.] The University of Cambridge is offering a 4-year PhD studentship in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology, based in the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry and the new AstraZeneca Discovery Centre. This collaborative project, supervised by Professor David Spring (Cambridge) and Dr Jonathan Bargh (AstraZeneca), focuses on developing the next generation of antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates using divinylpyridimidine conjugation. The research aims to combine advances in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) with antisense oligonucleotides, targeting cancer therapy and gene expression modulation. Antibody-drug conjugates have transformed targeted cancer therapy by delivering cytotoxic drugs directly to cancer cells, minimizing systemic toxicity. Oligonucleotide-based therapies, such as antisense oligonucleotides, offer innovative approaches for modulating gene expression and protein function. By combining the specificity of antibodies with the gene-modulating capabilities of oligonucleotides, antibody-oligonucleotide conjugates (AOCs) represent a promising therapeutic strategy. This project will develop novel methods for conjugating oligonucleotides to antibodies using divinylpyridine motifs, providing training in both organic synthesis and chemical biology. The studentship offers the opportunity to work across two leading research sites and develop expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, peptide chemistry, and bioconjugation. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment and benefit from collaboration with AstraZeneca scientists. The position is ideal for highly motivated individuals capable of independent thinking and research. Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first or upper second-class degree in Chemistry or a closely related subject. A strong background in organic chemistry is preferred, and practical experience in synthetic organic chemistry and peptide chemistry is advantageous. The studentship provides a maintenance grant of £21,500 per annum plus tuition fees at the UK/home rate. Non-UK applicants must be able to fund the overseas fee differential or secure a suitable scholarship. The program will commence in October 2026, with interviews anticipated in mid-December or early January. To apply, submit your application through the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal for the course 'PhD in Chemistry', naming Professor David Spring as your potential supervisor and quoting reference MA47980. For further information about research in the Department of Chemistry, visit www.ch.cam.ac.uk . For queries regarding the studentship, contact Prof. David Spring at spring@ch.cam.ac.uk . The University of Cambridge is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from all backgrounds.