De novo enzyme design for biosynthesis (PhD Studentship) Queen’s University Belfast in United Kingdom

A fully funded PhD studentship is available at Queen’s University Belfast in the groups of Dr Meilan Huang and Dr Mark McLaughlin, as part of the cross-institutional BioAID Doctoral Training Programme. This innovative programme brings together world-leading experts from Queen's University Belfast, University of Manchester, University of Edinburgh, and University of Bristol to train the next generation of scientists in artificial intelligence and data-driven approaches for translational biocatalysis. The focus is on developing sustainable biotechnologies, with applications spanning pharmaceuticals, agri-tech, and clean manufacturing.

PhD students will gain advanced expertise in enzyme science, machine learning, enzyme engineering, and synthetic biology. The programme offers interdisciplinary, co-supervised projects across biocatalysis and AI, supported by national computing infrastructure, hands-on laboratory training, and strong academic/industry partnerships through co-designed projects and placements. Structured cohort training and tailored professional development are delivered by partner institutions, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

This specific project centers on the generative design of transition metal-containing cytochrome P450 enzymes and dehydrogenases for the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds. A generalisable modelling pipeline will be developed to generate and predict enzyme variants by integrating P450-specific data with state-of-the-art deep learning models. Physics-based descriptors derived from molecular modelling and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, as well as Machine Learning Potentials (MLPs), will be developed and applied to efficiently evaluate reaction profiles and energetic landscapes. This enables accurate and scalable screening of designed enzyme libraries, providing a versatile foundation for the design of optimised enzymes suitable for scale-up biosynthesis of target compounds.

The studentship is fully funded for 48 months, covering tuition fees and an annual stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 per annum for 2025-26), subject to final confirmation of BBSRC funding. The scheme is open to UK and international students. Applicants must fulfil Queen’s University Belfast entry requirements, hold (or expect to achieve) a First Class or 2:1 UK honours degree (or international equivalent), and ideally hold a master’s-level qualification at merit or distinction. Flexible study arrangements (including part-time options) may be considered depending on the project and funder.

Applications must be submitted via the QUB Direct Application portal. Include the project title, supervisor name, and contact details of two referees. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For queries, contact [email protected]. Diversity and inclusion are central to Queen’s University Belfast, and applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

For further information, visit the project page: De novo enzyme design for biosynthesis.