PhD Studentship in Medicinal Chemistry: Hydrophobic Warheads to Expand Covalent Drug Discovery Newcastle University in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship at Newcastle University offers an exciting opportunity to join a leading medicinal chemistry research group focused on developing innovative cancer treatments and advancing drug discovery methodologies. The project, in collaboration with Eli Lilly Pharmaceuticals, aims to expand the scope of targeted covalent inhibitors (TCIs) by designing and synthesizing novel hydrophobic warheads for use in covalent fragment screening libraries. These libraries will be constructed using the Fraglite design approach and screened against high-value cancer protein targets using both protein NMR and X-ray crystallography, the key techniques for fragment-based drug discovery.

As a student, you will engage in a multidisciplinary research environment, gaining hands-on experience in organic synthesis, fragment library design, and advanced screening methods. The iterative design-make-test cycle will allow you to optimize hit fragments and contribute to the identification of new drug discovery start points for challenging cancer targets. The project is ideally suited for graduates in chemistry who are passionate about organic or medicinal chemistry and seeking a career at the chemistry-biology interface.

Training will encompass experimental techniques across chemistry and biology, equipping you with a highly desirable skill set for future research and industry roles. You will benefit from frequent interactions with scientists at Eli Lilly, who will co-supervise the project, providing valuable industry perspective and networking opportunities.

Funding for this studentship includes 100% coverage of tuition fees and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £20,780 (2025/26 UKRI rate), with additional project costs supported. The award is sponsored by EPSRC and Eli Lilly Pharmaceuticals, ensuring robust financial and academic backing.

Eligibility requires a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject. The admissions process values prior experience, research enthusiasm, and independent thinking. Strong analytical, verbal, and written communication skills are essential. A Masters qualification is not mandatory if you have a 2:1 degree or can demonstrate equivalent experience. Applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all sub-skills). International candidates may need ATAS clearance for visa purposes.

To apply, complete the required personal statement document and submit your application via the University’s Apply to Newcastle Portal, selecting 'PhD Chemistry (full time)' (programme code 8100F) and entering the studentship code DLA2630. The application deadline is January 31, 2026, and the studentship will commence on October 1, 2026. For further information, contact Dr Hannah Stewart at [email protected] or [email protected].