Developing Next‑Generation Boron Compounds for BNCT Cancer Therapy

We invite applications for a PhD project focused on the design, synthesis and evaluation of novel boron-rich small molecules for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). BNCT is a targeted radiotherapeutic strategy with growing clinical momentum but a critical unmet need for improved boron delivery agents. Critically, at the University of Birmingham we have the only neutron source in the UK for BNCT research.
The successful candidate will work at the interface of synthetic medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, and translational radiotherapy, developing new boron chemotypes with enhanced tumour uptake, retention and selectivity. The project will involve iterative molecule design, synthesis, and physicochemical/biological characterisation, with opportunities to collaborate with experts in cancer biology, imaging and BNCT-relevant assay development.

Research aims
The final scope will be tailored to the successful applicant and may include:
• Boron cluster and boron-rich scaffold design (e.g., carboranes/boron cages and alternatives)
• Prodrug, targeting-ligand, or transporter‑engaging strategies to improve tumour delivery
• Structure–property relationships to optimise solubility, stability and cellular accumulation
• In vitro testing and mechanistic studies; potential progression toward in vivo evaluation via collaborators

Candidate profile
A strong undergraduate or Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry or a related discipline.
Ability to work independently, manage lab work safely, and communicate results clearly in different formats.
English language proficiency meeting institutional requirements. Full details can be found here: Pharmacy PhD / MSc (Res) - University of Birmingham

Desirable
Demonstrable interest in experimental lab-based research (synthetic chemistry).

Training and environment
You will join a supportive, collaborative research environment with access to modern synthetic and analytical facilities and a network of translational partners. The project offers excellent preparation for careers in medicinal chemistry, radiopharmaceutical/therapeutics R&D, or academic research.

Funding notes:
You can search for sources of funding at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/pgfunding

This is a self-funded PhD opportunity (UK or international). Applicants must be able to cover the Tuition fees (rate depends on fee status); living costs; and any applicable bench fees/consumables (to be confirmed once the experimental plan is agreed).

How to apply
Informal enquiries to [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Please enclose a CV (including research experience and any publications) and cover letter (1–2 pages) describing your interest in this research project, how it aligns to your previous experience, and what you would like to gain from studying for a PhD.

Deadline: Open until filled (early enquiries encouraged)
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to an inclusive, supportive research culture.

References:
Punshon, L.D., Fabbrizi, M.R., Phoenix, B., Green, S., Parsons, J.L. (2024) Current insights into the radiobiology of boron neutron capture therapy and the potential for further improving biological effectiveness. Cells. 13 (24):2065. (Doi.org/10.3390/cells13242065).

J. G. Finch, R. J. Pass, M. Rita Fabbrizi, A. E. P. McLoughlin, S. Green, J. L. Parsons, J. P. C. Coverdale, Kinetic analysis of boron therapeutics in head and neck cancer cells by complementary bulk ICP-MS and single-cell (scICP-MS) approaches. J. Anal. At. Spectrom., 2025,40, 2763-2772 https://doi.org/10.1039/D5JA00228A

Gill, D. M., Povinelli, A. P. R., Zazeri, G., Mahmoud, A. M., Shamir, S. A., Wilkinson, F. L., Alexander, M. Y., Cornelio, M. L., Jones, A. M. “The modulatory role of sulfated and non-sulfated small molecule heparan sulfate-glycomimetics in endothelial dysfunction: Absolute structural clarification, molecular docking and simulated dynamics, SAR analyses and ADME studies” RSC Med. Chem. 2021, 12, 779-790. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2021/md/d0md00366b