Research Supervisor Connect

‘Magic Bullet’ Cancer Drugs and Antibiotics

Summary

We are building new kinds of cancer drugs and antibiotics: molecules that change their behaviour in the presence of their biological target, being chemically activated only when they bind their biomolecular target. In parallel projects we are developing

(i) new compounds to be activated by interactions with cancer cells (enabling new detection methods for cancer, and new anti-cancer agents); and

(ii) new antibacterial agents activated by the enzymes that impart antibiotic resistance to bacteria (giving 'resistance-activated' antibiotics).

Supervisors

Professor Peter Rutledge, Associate Professor Matthew Todd.

Research location

School of Chemistry

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

This project combines organic synthesis with coordination chemistry and protein chemistry to develop new drugs that target bacterial infection and cancerous cells. Using organic chemistry (macrocycle synthesis, peptide chemistry and the copper-catalysed azide/alkyne cycloaddition reaction) we will assemble structures in which a macrocyclic core (e.g. cyclam, cyclen, TACN) is appended to the biomolecular ligand. A metal ion coordinated by the macrocycle is silenced when the biomolecular ligand also coordinates, but when this ligand meets its macromolecular target, the ligand target interaction unmasks the metal and initiates new reactivity at the metal centre. Harnessing this new reactivity to achieve a selective cytotoxic response is the aim of this project.

Additional information

Working on this project, you will use organic synthesis, spectroscopic techniques including 1H and 13C NMR, IR and mass spectroscopy and chromatography. You will have the opportunity to develop further skills in some or all of: coordination chemistry, crystallography, chemical biology and enzyme chemistry. Prior experience in one or more of these areas would be an advantage, but is not required.Laboratory costs (chemicals, consumables, spectroscopy) will be covered through existing funding in the group, however direct funding for fees or scholarships is not currently available from within the group. Australian and New Zealand citizens should apply for an Australian Postgraduate Award, International Students should apply for scholarship funding through the International Office and Science Faculty schemes.

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

Want to find out more?

Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 1549