Chemistry PhD Researcher in United Kingdom

PhD Position – Reid Group, University of Strathclyde (Glasgow)

Title: Imaging Approaches to Monitor and Optimise Solid Phase Oligonucleotide Synthesis

Start date: October 2025 (or ASAP thereafter)

Duration: 3 years (full-time)

Deadline: 23:59, Sunday 7 September 2025

About the Project

This PhD project offers the chance to pioneer new process analytical technologies (PAT) for solid phase oligonucleotide synthesis (SPOS) — a key method in developing modern therapeutics.

You’ll use non-invasive imaging approaches to identify colour and shape signatures in SPOS, as well as object detection methods to characterise the dynamic swelling of solid supports. The research will apply our group’s software, Kineticolor, to:

• Monitor kinetics of key SPOS steps (detritylation, coupling, oxidation/sulfurization, capping).
• Develop imaging-enabled understanding of SPOS operations (including base deprotection and resin cleavage).
• Characterise resin swelling as oligomers grow.
• Investigate video analysis to track optimal aging of reagents.

What You’ll Gain

• Training in synthesis, kinetics, and advanced imaging technologies.
• Experience with lab-based video capture, statistical data analysis, and correlation with conventional methods (NMR, UV-vis, HPLC).
• Opportunities to publish, patent, and present at conferences.
• Exposure to industrial collaborations and commercialisation pathways.
• A place in a supportive, multidisciplinary team working at the interface of chemistry, chemical engineering, and computer vision.

Candidate Requirements

• UK nationals only (due to funding conditions).
• Minimum 2:1 Honours or Masters degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Industrial experience welcome but not required.
• Curiosity, resilience, and willingness to learn are just as important as ticking every technical box.

How to Apply

Send a 2-page CV and a 1-page cover letter (explaining your motivation and suitability) to:

marc.reid.100@strath.ac.uk

(Subject line: PhD 2025)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview shortly after the deadline.