Job Opportunities

Applications are invited for a 4-year PhD studentship based in the Department of Chemistry and the new AstraZeneca Discovery Centre at Cambridge. The student will be working on a collaborative project jointly supervised by Professor Matthew Gaunt (Cambridge) and Dr Henry Blackwell (AstraZeneca) and will have the opportunity to work across the two sites.

The project will develop distinct catalyst activation modes that enable the rapid assembly of novel molecular architectures that are directly applicable to fragment-based drug discovery. The project will focus on the development of methods to directly generate synthetically versatile C(sp3)-rich polar scaffolds and seek to assess representative libraries in preliminary biological screens. In addition to state-of-the-art synthetic chemistry research the project will provide exposure and training in high-throughout experimentation, computational design and medicinal chemistry.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual capable of thinking and working independently. Applicants must have (or expect to obtain) at least the equivalent of a UK upper second-class Master's degree in a relevant subject such as Chemistry. Ideally, the candidate will have a strong background in organic chemistry. Practical experience of synthetic organic chemistry in a research environment would be beneficial.

The studentship commences in October 2025 and provides tuition fees at the UK rate and an enhanced maintenance grant (£21,500 in year 1). Overseas students can be considered if they can cover the difference in the cost of overseas fees. Details of how to apply for University scholarships to cover the extra cost can be found at: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/

To apply, please submit an application for the course "PhD in Chemistry", naming Professor Matthew Gaunt as potential supervisor, through the University Applicant Portal: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcchpdpch

For any queries about this studentship, please contact Prof. Matthew Gaunt by email at gaunt-group@ch.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference MA43429 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Further information

• AZ PhD Studentship
  AZ PhD Studentship FPs