Mark Searcey

[Fully funded 4-year PhD CASE studentship with Inspiralis Limited, including payment of tuition fees, annual stipend of £20,780 (2025/6 rate), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000 per year.] This fully funded PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia focuses on the development of new antibacterial compounds to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. Supervised by Professor Mark Searcey and Dr Andrew Gates, the project aims to identify and target unique DNA structures in bacteria, specifically the four way junction (4WJ) formed by inverted repeats in the bacterial genome. The research will involve a multidisciplinary approach, combining biophysical and biochemical assays to study these DNA structures, and employing both solid and solution phase synthesis to create novel molecules that can bind and potentially stabilize or disrupt the 4WJ formation. The effects of these compounds on bacteria will be evaluated using advanced methods developed at UEA. The studentship is part of the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP), which offers a comprehensive training programme and a vibrant research community. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) to gain valuable work experience and enhance professional development. The project is a CASE studentship in partnership with Inspiralis Limited, providing full financial support including tuition fees, a generous annual stipend of £20,780, and a research training support grant of £5,000 per year. Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first class or 2:1 Honours degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related discipline, and must meet the English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each category). The position is full-time, starting in October 2026, with interviews for shortlisted candidates scheduled for February 2026. For further information on eligibility and application procedures, candidates are encouraged to visit the NRPDTP website or contact the supervisors directly.