Ref: VCS-SCI-01-13
Description:
Research into naturally occurring and synthetic diketopiperazine (DKP) derivatives is an exciting area of significant contemporary scientific interest.
The objective of this project is to synthesise a range of novel DKP derivatives possessing potentially useful clinical activities. Various instrumental techniques will be utilised in order to determine the purity, structure and conformation of DKP derivatives in the solid, solution and gaseous states; namely NMR (solid and solution state), MS, dispersive Raman/surface enhanced Raman, infra-red spectroscopy, temperature dependent XRPD and single crystal X-ray diffraction.
Gaussian and CASTEP molecular modelling packages will be used to determine the theoretical structures of the synthesised molecules in the solid, solution and gaseous phases. In addition, the modelling packages will be utilised to obtain theoretical spectroscopic data in order to compare and contrast with experimental data outputs.
The successful candidate will receive a £13726 bursary (years 2 and 3 linked to RCUK Doctoral Stipend rate) plus a contribution towards tuition fees of up to the equivalent of the universityâs Home/EU rate for the duration of their scholarship, subject to performance.
Applicants must hold a First Class or Upper Second Class Honours Bachelorâs or Masterâs degree (UK or UK equivalent) in a relevant discipline.Â
Applications are sought by the indicated closing date for starting in September 2013.
For further information please contact the supervisor: Dr Andrew Mendham, 0208 331 9836.
For additional information about the studentship and links to the application form please go to: http://www2.gre.ac.uk/research/study/studentshipsÂ
The application form should be completed and returned to: postgraduateresearch@gre.ac.uk and include: a comprehensive CV and a one page covering letter explaining your interest in the project and how it relates to past experience and present motivations. Attachments should be in PDF or Word format.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 UTC on Tuesday 18 June 2013