PRIMED for Medicinal Chemistry (Precision, AI-Informed, Molecular Editing) PhD Positions University of St Andrews in United Kingdom

The PRIMED for Medicinal Chemistry PhD positions at the University of St Andrews offer an exciting opportunity to join a cutting-edge research group focused on precision molecular editing and diversification. The PRIMED project integrates late-stage enzymatic halogenation with synthetic diversification of aryl and alkyl halides, addressing key challenges in pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Formation of C-X bonds (where X is F, Cl, Br, or I) is crucial for modulating bioactivity, bioavailability, and metabolic stability in bioactive molecules. Traditional industrial methods for C-X bond formation rely on fragile supply chains and lack selectivity, often resulting in complex mixtures and limiting the diversity of halogenated building blocks.

PRIMED leverages enzymatic halogenation to achieve precision, selectivity, and efficiency. Enzymes enable late-stage halogenation using salt as the halogenating agent, producing a single product and simplifying purification. This approach allows for the functionalisation of complex bioactive scaffolds, expanding the possibilities for pharmaceutical and agrochemical molecule design. The research group is international and diverse, with expertise spanning bioinformatics, microbiology, molecular biology, synthetic chemistry, artificial intelligence, and synthetic biology.

Successful candidates will join a collaborative environment and work on interdisciplinary projects at the interface of chemistry, biology, and informatics. The positions are fully funded through the EPSRC Open Plus Fellowship, awarded to Professor JM Goss, and offer comprehensive support including tuition and stipend. Applicants should have an excellent first degree or master's in a relevant field, prior research experience, and strong skills in areas such as AI plus chemistry, AI plus enzymology, AI plus medicinal chemistry, software engineering plus chemistry/biochemistry, synthetic organic chemistry (multi-step/total synthesis/natural products), enzymology, molecular biology, microbiology, or bioinformatics.

Applications are accepted year-round, with the aim to appoint by May, but positions will remain open until two suitable candidates are found. The School of Chemistry at the University of St Andrews provides a vibrant academic setting and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Interested candidates should apply online via the FindAPhD link and prepare a CV and cover letter highlighting their relevant research experience and skills. For further information, contact the School of Chemistry.