Funded PhD: Design and synthesis of multitarget inhibitors for breast cancer treatment

This project aims to tackle triple-negative breast cancer by developing multitarget drugs, single molecules designed to block more than one cancer-driving pathway at the same time.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat forms of breast cancer. Unlike other breast cancer subtypes, TNBC does not respond to hormone therapies or HER2-targeted drugs. Current treatment options are limited, and patients often face poor outcomes, making the search for new, effective therapies an urgent priority.

This project aims to tackle that challenge by developing multitarget drugs, single molecules designed to block more than one cancer-driving pathway at the same time. Specifically, we will focus on two key proteins: histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). By designing molecules that target both HDAC6 and PI3K simultaneously, we hope to achieve stronger anti-cancer effects and reduce the chances of drug resistance.

The project is structured into three phases over 36 months:

  • Design and synthesis (months 1-18): Using computer-based drug design, alongside modern synthetic chemistry, you will create and optimise a focused library of new drug candidates. The aim is to identify compounds that can bind effectively to both HDAC6 and PI3K.
  • In vitro testing (months 12-24): This will include assessing their drug-like properties, testing their activity in triple-negative breast cancer cell lines, and evaluating the inhibition of HDAC and PI3K.
  • In vivo studies (months 24-36): The most successful compounds will be taken forward into animal models to assess their ability to shrink tumours and their safety profile, paving the way for future preclinical development.

Key objectives

  • To design and synthesise novel multitarget compounds that inhibit HDAC6 and PI3K.
  • To evaluate their anti-cancer effects in cell and animal models of TNBC.
  • To identify one or more 'lead candidates' with the potential to move towards preclinical development.

This project is funded by the RCSI Clement Archer Scholarship and RCSI's School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences.

Tenure: Three years 

Specification

Essential

  • Upper second class (2.1) honours degree (or equivalent) in pharmacy, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, medicinal chemistry or related area.
  • Non-native English speakers are expected to have at least 6.5 in IELTS (academic) or equivalent.
  • Demonstrable laboratory experience in organic synthesis and compound characterisation (e.g., NMR, MS, chromatography).
  • Understanding of cancer biology and pharmacology.
  • Good organisational skills and ability to manage workload.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Willingness to contribute to teaching within the MPharm and BSc ATT programmes (lectures, tutorials, or laboratory sessions).

Desirable

  • Experience in multi-step organic synthesis, purification techniques (e.g. flash chromatography, preparative HPLC) and analytical methods (NMR, MS, IR, HPLC).
  • Familiarity with computational drug design (e.g. molecular docking, pharmacophore modelling, QSAR, molecular dynamics).
  • Laboratory experience in biochemical assays.

Application process

Applications must include:

To apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full.

Apply now

Please note:

  • Unfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants
  • Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview
  • At this stage only successful candidates will be contacted to submit, CV, transcripts and other relevant documentation
  • Only their referees will also be contacted at this stage for a reference.

Applications must include:

Deadlines

All applications must be made online by 15 November 2026.

It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure the application form is completed in full and on time. Late and/or incomplete applications will not normally be assessed.

Interviews are expected to take place on 20 November 2026. Online interviews will be available.