The topic examines the discovery and development of new small molecule therapeutics. This considers improved disease selectivity and reduced systemic toxicities, through the use of:

• rational drug design and synthesis
• lead optimisation
• preclinical evaluation in cellular disease model systems.

We explore developments of cancer prodrugs with tumour-specific activation and reduced systemic toxicity. We explore novel therapies for improved treatment of infective diseases including:

• dengue
• other haemorrhagic fever viruses
• tuberculosis

We explore the molecular mechanisms that generate the symptoms of chronic pain. We look at its translation to strategies for pain control, including opioid treatment.

Investigating hormones to control epithelial ion channel activity and physiological action. We look at the control of sodium channel activity in the distal nephron and consequent hypo and hyper-tension.

Development of new preclinical tools for identification of therapeutics with potential safety liabilities. We look at relevant cell models and systems for the detection of effects on the heart.

Pharmaceutical formulations to deliver active molecules to treat disease. We have active research on:

• intermolecular interactions
• nanoscale pharmaceutics and nanotherapeutics, including dosage form design from intermolecular interactions,
• delivery of biopharmaceuticals.

In particular research focuses on:

• determining strategies for improving drug solubility
• altering materials properties to enable drug delivery and the production of enhanced medicines
• supramolecular Pharmaceutics. In particular, inter/intramolecular interactions and kinetics
• fundamental and translational nanomedicines
• understanding and improving drug delivery via the subcutaneous, inhaled and intravitreal routes

The role of community pharmacies as a central fulcrum to address health inequalities and behaviour change in relation to:

• smoking
• alcohol
• substance misuse
• sexual health
• obesogenic behaviours

Community pharmacies are the point of contact for patients in the wider primary healthcare team. We test the interactions of this relationship and potential role for pharmacies in the diagnosis of disease. We also explore improvements in public health from this relationship.

The safe and efficient use of medicines in primary and secondary care is central to the role of every pharmacist. Medicines are becoming complex and patients are being given more preventative medicine focused at improving their health. This can pose clear risks and significant potential for complications. Rationalisation of medicine usage:

• crosses care boundaries
• applies both within primary and secondary care

We investigate prescribing habits and the mechanisms to support patients who take complex medicines for long periods.

Medication errors can result in patient injury or death, and are preventable. These errors can occur at the stages of ordering, transcription, dispensing and administration. We conduct studies around key technological advances targeted towards intercepting these errors and improving patient safety. Our research focuses on evaluation of specific health information technology prevention strategies throughout the medication use process. We have a particular emphasis on health information technology. This includes its broader implications for medical care and policy. We also explore the different types and causes of errors that occur during the prescribing process when using electronic systems. We provide national and international recommendations for their improvement.

See our staff research profiles

See a non-exhaustive list of available PhD projects

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An MPhil is available in all subject areas. You receive research training and undertake original research leading to the completion of a 40,000 – 50,000 word thesis.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

A PhD is a doctorate or doctoral award. It involves original research that should make a significant contribution to the knowledge of a specific subject. To complete the PhD you will produce a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. A PhD usually takes three years full time.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

Depending on your modules, you’ll be assessed through a combination of:

• Thesis
• Viva

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