PhD in Bioprocess

This 4-year PhD studentship in Bioprocess/Biocatalysis at The University of Manchester will develop tools, knowledge and training in biocatalysis by engineering two distinct cofactor dependent enzymes to yield asymmetric acid building blocks./nThe project focuses on combining UbiD family enzymes (prFMN-dependent reversible decarboxylases) with reductases to achieve asymmetric reductive carboxylation and expand UbiD mediated Csp2-H activation, using laboratory evolution and biophysical studies (including advanced spectroscopy, computational modelling and structural biology)./nThe studentship is open to Home (UK) and overseas students. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual uplift) and tuition fees will be paid. The start date is October 2026. The groups are co-located in the MIB and the Chemistry building in Manchester and are supported by UKRI/industrial collaborative projects.