AstraZeneca funded Non-clinical PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and Bioconjugation
Applications are invited for a four-year PhD studentship starting on 1 October 2027 in the Dydio group at the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge. The student will be jointly supervised by Dr Paweł Dydio (Cambridge) and Dr Balakumar Vijayakrishnan (AstraZeneca), working closely with Dr Luke Masterson and other AstraZeneca scientists, with opportunities to conduct research at both institutions.
The project offers the opportunity to discover new organic reactions and apply them to challenges in therapeutic development. Building on C–H thianthrenation chemistry developed in the Dydio group, you will investigate selective methods for modifying tyrosine residues in peptides, proteins and antibodies. The research combines synthetic methodology development and mechanistic investigation with bioconjugation and antibody–drug conjugates, connecting fundamental organic chemistry with industrial applications.
Candidate
We seek a motivated candidate with a strong interest in organic synthesis, curiosity about reaction mechanisms and enthusiasm for creative problem-solving. Practical research experience in synthetic chemistry would be beneficial. Previous experience with proteins, antibodies or bioconjugation is not required; relevant training will be provided.
Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, qualifications meeting the PhD in Chemistry entry requirements, normally an upper second-class integrated master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree at this level plus a relevant master’s, or an international equivalent, in Chemistry or a closely related subject.
Funding
The award provides four years of stipend support, tuition fees at the UK Home rate, and contributions towards research, training and travel. The indicative first-year stipend is £23,805, subject to confirmation in the Studentship Agreement.
Applications are welcome from candidates of all nationalities. For candidates liable for international fees, the difference between Home and international tuition fees must be covered by an additional scholarship or other approved funding source. Student self-funding of this difference is not permitted.
Application process
Apply for the PhD in Chemistry, starting in October 2027, through the University Applicant Portal, following the Department of Chemistry’s application guidance. Name Dr Paweł Dydio as a prospective supervisor and explain your interest in this project. In the funding section, indicate this AstraZeneca studentship. You can also select other scholarships for which you are eligible.
Provide the supporting documents required by the portal, including your CV, academic transcripts, statements of research experience and interests, and two references.
Deadline and interviews
Complete applications, including supporting documents and references, must be submitted by 23:59 GMT on 8 December 2026.
Interviews are expected in late December 2026 or early January 2027, with studentship decisions anticipated in February or, where necessary, early March 2027.
Informal enquiries are welcome at pd552@cam.ac.uk. Further information about the group is available at dydiolab.com.
Student support and training
You will benefit from close academic–industrial supervision and support from an academic mentor. Training will develop your expertise in synthesis, mechanistic investigation and modern analytical methods, alongside scientific writing, presentations and independent research.
As part of this research-based PhD, you will have access to lectures, workshops and researcher-development courses across the Department and University. You will participate in departmental seminars and the Synthesis Research Interest Group, and join the Cambridge–AstraZeneca PhD community. Programme participation includes attending and presenting at the annual AstraZeneca PhD symposium.
Diversity and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We place particular emphasis on teamwork, mutual respect and an enjoyable research environment. Through mentoring, open discussion and shared problem-solving, we aim to help every student develop the skills and confidence to make original scientific contributions.