Program Overview

The program in question is a PhD research opportunity focused on "Simplifying marine polycyclic ether synthesis through symmetry." This project aims to explore the asymmetric synthesis of marine polycyclic ethers using an innovative desymmetrisation approach.

Qualification(s) Available

• PhD

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in chemistry.

Fees for Entry

• UK: £5,006 per academic year (full-time)
• International: £28,600 per academic year (full-time)

Duration

• Full-time: 3 years
• Part-time: 6 years

Start Date

• October 2025
• January 2026
• April 2026
• July 2026

Application Deadline

• 1 April 2026

Project Reference

• CM/MK-SF1/2025

Location

• Loughborough

Subject Area(s)

• Chemistry

Project Details

Marine polycyclic ethers natural products have significant medicinal potential. For example, they have been found to be modulators of brain-related disorders due to their neurotoxicity. Polycyclic ethers can interact with sodium and potassium gated ion channels, but their latent potential is being unmet due to the lack of material from natural sources.

This research programme will explore the asymmetric synthesis of marine polycyclic ethers, such as gymnocin A and B, using an innovative desymmetrisation approach. Our group's innovative synthetic approach provides a C2-symmetric polycyclic ether precursor capable of undergoing functionalization, significantly shortening the reaction step count to this complex natural product class, compared to current synthetic approaches. This has the potential to deliver vital synthetic material for probing the mode-of-action of the polycyclic ethers.

This project will significantly increase the synthetic efficiency compared to current strategies to access polycyclic ethers. This project will provide the candidate with excellent training in modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques and strategies in our new state-of-the-art laboratories here at Loughborough.

Supervisors

• Primary supervisor: Dr Marc Kimber
• Secondary supervisor: Dr George Weaver

Entry Requirements by Country

A comprehensive list of entry requirements by country is provided, detailing the equivalent qualifications and grades required for applicants from different nations.

English Language Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees cover the cost of teaching, assessment, and operating University facilities. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures. Information on research degree funding is also available.

How to Apply

All applications should be made online, quoting the advertised reference number. To avoid delays, please ensure that you submit a CV and the minimum supporting documents. The selection criteria include the application, CV, and supporting documents, and applications are considered on an ongoing basis.

Loughborough University

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Overview:

Loughborough University is a public research university located in Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. It is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in sports science, engineering, and business. The university boasts a vibrant campus life and a strong focus on research and innovation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Loughborough University offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and volunteering opportunities. The university has a strong sporting heritage and is home to world-class facilities. Students can also enjoy a vibrant social scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and events happening on campus.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class facilities:

Loughborough University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated sports village, a modern library, and cutting-edge research labs.

Strong academic reputation:

The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for its academic excellence.

Vibrant campus life:

Students can enjoy a lively and diverse campus community with numerous opportunities for social interaction and personal development.

Focus on research and innovation:

Loughborough University is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on tackling real-world challenges.

Excellent career prospects:

Graduates from Loughborough University are highly sought after by employers, with strong career prospects in various fields.

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Academic Programs:

Loughborough University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Engineering:

Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and more.

Business and Economics:

Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, and more.

Sport Science:

Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Sports Management, and more.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

Psychology, Sociology, History, and more.

Science and Technology:

Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and more.

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Other:

Loughborough University has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The university is actively working towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions and promoting inclusivity and diversity within its community.