The University of Strathclyde, in collaboration with Charles River Laboratories and funded by Medical Research Scotland, is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in the area of Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) technology. The project, titled "The Development of Novel Antibody-Drug Conjugate Technology for Use Beyond Oncology," will commence in October 2026 and run for four years. The research will be supervised by Professor William J. Kerr and Dr David Lindsay in the Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry, with additional mentorship from a senior scientist at Charles River Laboratories. This interdisciplinary project will focus on the development of novel ADCs, an innovative class of targeted therapeutic agents that combine the specificity of antibodies with the potency of small-molecule drugs. While ADCs have shown significant promise in oncology, this project aims to expand their application to other therapeutic areas where targeted drug delivery could offer substantial benefits. The research will involve advanced organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and biological evaluation, providing a comprehensive training environment at the interface of chemistry and biology. The studentship is fully collaborative, with research time split approximately 50:50 between the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow and Charles River Laboratories in Saffron Walden, Essex. This arrangement offers the successful candidate exposure to both academic and industrial research environments, enhancing their skills and employability in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a strong MChem degree or equivalent, with significant experience in synthetic organic chemistry and medicinal chemistry. Candidates must demonstrate technical and practical skills, a dedicated and conscientious attitude, and the ability to provide creative and innovative solutions to complex problems. An interest in working at the interface of chemistry and biology, particularly in drug discovery, is essential. Strong communication skills are also required. Please note that only applicants eligible for home fees can be considered. The studentship is fully funded for four years, covering tuition fees (home fees only) and providing a stipend. The application deadline is 12:00 pm, Monday 16th March 2026. For full details and instructions on how to apply, visit the provided link or contact Laura Paterson at [email protected].

The Kerr Research Group at the University of Strathclyde is offering multiple fully funded PhD opportunities for the 2026 academic year in the fields of advanced catalysis and medicinal chemistry. These prestigious four-year studentships are structured through collaborations with leading industry partners such as GSK and Charles River Laboratories, providing a unique split-site training model. Successful candidates will engage in projects ranging from the development of novel Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) technology for non-oncology applications to innovative research in iridium-catalyzed C-H activation and hydrogen isotope exchange. PhD students will benefit from a comprehensive training package, including full tuition fee coverage for eligible Home fee students and a competitive annual stipend at the UKRI rate (approximately £20,780 for the 2025/2026 session). The program features significant industrial engagement, with up to 50% of research time spent at industrial laboratories such as those in Stevenage or Saffron Walden. This immersive experience allows students to master advanced techniques in synthetic organic chemistry, isotopic labeling, and medicinal informatics, while gaining direct exposure to the operational standards of the biopharma sector. Applicants should possess or expect to obtain a strong MChem degree (or equivalent) with a robust foundation in synthetic chemistry and a keen interest in working at the interface of chemistry and biology. The application process requires submission of a detailed CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter that demonstrates technical proficiency and alignment with the group’s research themes. The deadline for GSK-linked projects is March 2, 2026, and for the ADC-focused studentship with Charles River, March 16, 2026. Early application is encouraged due to the competitive nature of these positions. These PhD positions are ideal for aspiring scientists seeking to bridge fundamental research and industrial drug discovery, with the support of world-class academic supervision under Professor William J. Kerr and direct mentorship from industry leaders. For more information and to apply, visit the provided application link.