Ph.D. Research Scholarship
Nuclease-mediated destruction of antisense-based products of pharmaceutical biotechnology
Key words: Pharmaceutical biotechnology, antisense technology, enzyme biotechnology, environmental impact.
Antisense drugs are chemically modified RNA or DNA molecules capable of down regulating specific disease-related genes, and are ‘cutting edge’ biopharmaceuticals.
Over the initial 3-4 months the project will initially explore the manufacturing procedures employed in the large-scale production of antisense-based pharmaceutical products in the context of potential environmental impact. The main project work packages will center upon the development and evaluation of enzyme (nuclease)-mediated means of rendering antisense-containing solutions free form active antisense product. This will likely involve the screening, identification, recombinant production, characterization and immobilization of suitable nuclease enzymes. The main techniques used therefore will be in the area of protein/enzyme biochemistry, microbiology and molecular biology, although some environmental and chemical techniques will also be employed.
This research studentship is a fully funded 3 year postgraduate research scholarship (starting stipend of circa €14,500 per year plus fees, as well as a consumables and travel budget) and the successful candidate would be expected to start in or shortly after October 2006. Prospective candidates should hold a 1st class or upper 2nd class B.Sc (Hons) degree in a relevant science area such as biochemistry/biotechnology, chemistry, environmental science or analytical science.
Informal enquiries in the first instance should be directed to Dr. Gary Walsh:
Dr. Gary Walsh
E-mail: Gary.walsh[at]ul.ie
Chemical & Environmental Sciences Dept.,
University of Limerick.
Ireland.
[Modificato da AleX.zero 27/09/2006 1.15]