SBM CDT - Key Persons
Aidan is the recipient of a Balliol Snell Exhibition-SBM CDT Scholarship. He is originally from the Netherlands, but mainly grew up abroad in other countries. Aidan graduated in 2017 from the University of Glasgow with a 1st class MSci in Chemistry and five undergraduate awards. During his placement year at Roche in Basel, he worked on synthesising PET tracers to image α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. For his final year project in the Jamieson group, he modelled and synthesised stapled peptides to target protein-protein interactions. After graduating, Aidan took a year out, which included a 6-month internship at Syngenta (Stein) exploring ketene-iminium chemistry to make spiro building blocks and fungicides. His academic interests broadly involve organic synthesis and its application to medicinal chemistry and chemical biology. Outside of chemistry, Aidan really enjoys the outdoors, travelling, hiking, guitar and attending music events.
Aleksy completed his MChem at the University of Oxford, University College. His Part II project, under the supervision of Prof Stuart Conway, involved study of the structure activity relationships of novel molecules designed to bind to a bromodomain in the parasite Schistosoma mansoni, with the overall aim of validating novel targets for the treatment of Schistosomiasis. He spent the summer of 2019 at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China, in a research group focused on the development of new battery technologies, though has since found his place in organic chemistry. Specifically, Aleksy is interested in the development of syntheses of molecules with direct biological application. Aleksy is a keen musician, playing piano and oboe, and is currently teaching himself bass guitar. He also enjoys cooking for friends and going to the pub.
Originally from Nantes (France), Alexandre completed his undergraduate Masters at the University of Pierre et Marie Curie and Chimie Paristech. He conducted five months of research at F. Hoffmann-La Roche in Switzerland working on drug development, and then completed his Master's dissertation on a new synthetic method of alpha-trifluoromethylamino acid, under the supervision of Professor Cossy. He is looking forward to working towards his DPhil at the CDT in areas such as total synthesis, new synthetic methods and more. Alexandre is interested in the understanding and manipulation of living processes, thanks to synthetic organic chemistry, and also in business and innovations in healthcare. He is planning on working in the pharmaceutical industry in his future career. Apart from chemistry Alexandre enjoys swimming, reading and hiking.
Alison graduated with an MChem from the University of St Andrews during which she completed a 12 month industrial placement at GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage working in the Epigenetics DPU. She spent her final year carrying out her Master's project, working on the intramolecular synthesis of oxadiazoles as part of Professor Andrew Smith's research group. Alison's academic interests are methodology and organic synthesis, doing things no one has done before. After completing her PhD, Alison hopes to use her knowledge in either academia or industry. Apart from chemistry, she enjoys badminton, swimming, reading, and the baking and subsequent eating of cakes.
Alistair is the recipient of the Derek Calam-SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship 2019. Born in Hertfordshire, Alistair moved to Kent at an early age and then to Gothenburg in Sweden. He completed a four year MChem with first class honours from the University of York. During his final year, Alistair conducted an analytical chemistry placement at Bristol-Myers Squibb, investigating low level impurity quantification in pharmaceutical intermediates using vibrational spectroscopy. His research interests include the use of enzymes as catalysts for organic synthesis, the total synthesis of natural products and in the discovery and the design of chemical probes. Outside of the lab Alistair enjoys cooking, travelling, skiing and reading fantasy novels.
Alistair is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2017. Originally from Weymouth in Dorset, Alistair completed his MChem degree at the University of Oxford. During the summer of 2015, he was a visiting student at ETH Zürich under the supervision of Prof. Erick Carreira, where he synthesised novel pybox ligands for use in the synthesis of a natural product. His Master's project was with Prof. Ed Anderson, working towards the total syntheses of two 20-membered polyketide macrolactams, focussing particularly on a synthetic route that was applicable to other natural products within this class. His current interests are at the intersection of synthetic chemistry and computational modelling. When not in the lab, Alistair can be found either in the pub, on his bike, or playing a musical instrument.
Amy graduated with a first-class MChem degree from the University of York, of which she spent her final year at F. Hoffmann-La Roche in Switzerland. During her time in Switzerland she worked on the development of small molecules for neuroscience. Amy also carried out an EPSRC sponsored project at her home institution where she worked on the synthesis of a triscatecholate siderophore mimic. Her research interests lie in total synthesis, especially of pharmaceutically relevant compounds, and upon completion of her DPhil Amy hopes to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry. Away from the lab Amy enjoys baking, slacklining and running.
Originally from Ayr in Scotland, Andrew recently graduated with a First Class MChem from the University of St Andrews. As part of his degree, he spent 12 months working on the design and synthesis of novel herbicides with Syngenta at Jealott's Hill. For his final year in St Andrews, Andrew worked on chalcogen-bonding catalysis under the supervision of Prof. Andrew Smith. His research interests lie in asymmetric catalysis, and he hopes to explore this further during his PhD. In his spare time, Andrew enjoys going to the pub, cooking and baking, and also holds a pilot's licence.
Anna is originally from Southampton and has recently graduated from the University of Bristol with an MSci in Chemistry. During her undergraduate degree she spent her placement year at Pfizer, working on late stage drug development and a new method for the synthesis of pharmaceutically relevant chiral amines. Her final year project was carried out under the supervision of Dr John Bower and involved investigation into the synthesis of pyrrolidines via a novel, copper catalysed C H amination route. In her spare time, Anna enjoys walking, climbing and playing lacrosse. She also has a keen interest in music and plays the flute.
Anna is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2021. Originally from the Scottish Borders, Anna completed her MSci in Chemistry with Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Glasgow. During her degree, Anna undertook a placement year at Pfizer within the process chemistry department focusing on route development. Her final year project, under the supervision of Prof. Lee Cronin, involved creating 3D printed chemical reactors. Anna also completed two summer internships, one on PROTAC chemistry with Dr. David France at the University of Glasgow and the other, with Prof. Russell Cox at Leibniz University of Hannover, working on natural product biosynthesis. Outside the lab, Anna enjoys photography, hillwalking, dance and netball.
Antoine is originally from Marseille, France, and has recently completed his undergraduate Masters at the Université Pierre et Marie Curie and Chimie Paristech. After completing a five-month internship working on visible light-catalysed synthesis of tetrahydroisoquinoline scaffolds at CSIRO (Melbourne), the federal government agency for scientific research in Australia, Antoine completed his Master's dissertation at F. Hoffmann-La Roche in Switzerland. Besides his interests in practical chemistry at the bench, Antoine is keen to develop his teaching experience to confirm his academic ambitions. Outside the lab, Antoine enjoys cycling, playing flute or brass instruments, and, as a good French, eating cheese accompanied by good red wine.
Arseni obtained his MChem degree at the University of Edinburgh. He is of mixed Russian-Polish extraction and grew up in Wroclaw, Poland. His core scientific interests are reaction discovery and method development in organic chemistry, especially regarding new catalytic methods. His long-term plans are to pursue a career in research revolving around organic synthesis in either academic or industrial setting. He enjoys heavy metal, fantasy literature and a wide selection of sports.
Originally from Cheshire, England, Ben completed his MChem degree at Christ Church College, University of Oxford. During his final year project he worked in Professor Stephen Fletcher's group on using rhodium catalysed addition-cyclisation cascades to modify cyclobutenes. His interests lie in novel methodologies and their application in the synthesis of medicinally relevant molecules. In his spare time, Ben enjoys Dungeons and Dragons, cooking and hiking.
Ben is the recipient of the Alec Bond Graduate Scholarship in Chemistry 2020. Originally from London, England, Ben has since lived in the Cayman Islands and Great Malvern. He graduated with a First Class MChem degree at University College, University of Oxford in 2020, completing his Part II project under the supervision of Prof Michael Willis developing new methods to generate sulfinamide radicals using photoredox catalysis. Last summer, Ben undertook a summer research placement working under Prof Ed Anderson working towards the total synthesis of Alcyopterson P and Miltiorin D. Ben's research interests include total synthesis and the development of new methodologies. Outside of chemistry Ben's interests include rowing, playing rugby, watching Formula 1, cooking and going down to the pub with friends to have a pint.
Originally from Versailles, France, Benjamin recently completed a joint degree in Chemical Science and Chemical Engineering with a specialisation in Molecular Chemistry between the National Graduate School of Chemistry - Chimie ParisTech and the Université Pierre et Marie Curie in Paris. After a five-month internship a F. Hoffmann La Roche in Basel, Switzerland working on medicinal chemistry projects aimed at tackling schizophrenia and infectious diseases caused by resistant bacteria, Benjamin completed his Master's dissertation on the synthesis of novel inhibitors against epilepsy at Actelion Pharmaceuticals (now Idorsia Pharmaceuticals) in Allschwil, Switzerland. By joining the SBM CDT, Benjamin hopes to further increase his knowledge in modern organic synthesis in order to apply it to medicinal chemistry in the future. Outside the lab, he enjoys listening to music, dancing, cooking and baking for his friends and colleagues, as well as spending time on social media and playing video games.
Ben is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Originally from Hampshire, Ben graduated from the University of Leeds with a first class MChem/BSc in Medicinal Chemistry. His Master's research project, conducted under the supervision of Dr Visuvanathar Sridharan, explored the application of 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions to the synthesis of anticancer agents. During his 12-month industrial placement at F. Hoffmann-La Roche in Switzerland, Ben worked on the discovery of novel antibiotics. Ben's research interests include transition metal catalysis, cascade reactions and total synthesis. In his leisure time Ben is a keen climber and cyclist.
Ben is the recipient of the Oxford-Leon E & Iris L Beghian Graduate Scholarship 2019. He grew up in Saffron Walden, Essex before completing his MChem degree at the University of Oxford (University College). For his Master's project, he worked with Prof. Darren Dixon on developing a multi-step methodology for the synthesis of spirocyclic amines and investigated the application of this route in total synthesis. Alongside chemistry, Ben has a great interest in both music and travel. He stays active, playing football and squash and particularly enjoys hiking.
Originally from the west of France, Benoit completed his Master's degree in Chemistry with a Biochemistry option at the National Graduate School of Chemistry of Montpellier. Benoit had the opportunity to undertake internships in peptide synthesis at F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Switzerland, and in fragment-based drug design with Prof Nicole Zitzmann at the University of Oxford. By joining the SBM CDT, he hopes to further his interests in medicinal chemistry, particularly applied to infectious diseases and cancer. Outside of the lab, Benoy enjoys hiking, baking cakes for lab meetings, watching TV series and playing video games.
Bernadette is the recipient of an A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD). Originally from Singapore, Bernie obtained her MSci in Natural Sciences at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge in 2018, where she completed her final year project on the ion-pair directed regioselective borylation of phosphonium salts under the supervision of Dr Robert Phipps. She also undertook a research placement with Dr Gonçalo Bernardes on site-selective protein modification techniques. After her undergraduate studies, Bernie returned to Singapore for a year-long research attachment at A*STAR, where she worked on the phage display of macrocyclic peptide libraries. Bernie's main research interests lie in chemical biology, and in her free time, she enjoys playing the guitar, reading, cooking, and baking.
Bethany is from the High Peak and completed her MChem degree at Pembroke College, University of Oxford. Her Part II project, under the supervision of Prof. Ed Anderson, investigated palladium and ruthenium catalysed cycloisomerisations of enynamides, with application towards the synthesis of Gelsemine. She has a wide range of interests within organic chemistry, particularly new synthetic methods and their application to drug discovery. Outside of the lab Bethany enjoys climbing, American football and going to the pub.
Originally from Slovenia, Bruno completed his MChem at St John's College, University of Oxford in 2018. His Master's project, under the supervision of Prof. Ed Anderson, investigated the synthesis and coupling of cyclic alkenylboronic half esters, with application towards polyene synthesis. He previously worked on radically mediated Diels-Alder reactions under Prof. Tim Donohoe and on the development of new anthelmintic compounds for the whipworm parasite under Prof. Angela Russell. His main interests within the field of organic chemistry lie in the development of new synthetic methodology and its application to drug discovery. In his free time, Bruno enjoys reading, live music and wine.
Callan is the recipient of a University of Oxford Clarendon Scholarship. Originally from Ourimbah, a small, tranquil town on the east coast of New South Wales, Australia, Callan completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Sydney, graduating with First Class Honours and the University Medal in Organic Chemistry. While his Honours project focussed on strategies for the total synthesis of marine natural products, Callan has been involved in a wide range of projects, and has developed particular interests in reaction development and process chemistry. In parallel, Callan is an ardent follower of the arts, particularly cinema, literature, and music.
Carla is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Originally from Germany, Carla moved to the UK for secondary school, followed by an MChem degree at the University of Oxford. She completed a summer internship in 2019 in the Carell group at the LMU in Munich, working on a medicinal chemistry project that involved the synthesis of a cyclic dinucleotide. In her part II project, supervised by Prof Chris Schofield, Carla investigated the conformational changes of isopenicillin N synthase during catalysis. Her research interests lie in using synthetic organic chemistry to investigate and manipulate biological systems. Outside of chemistry, she enjoys horse riding and photography.
Charmaine is the recipient of an A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD) from Singapore, where she is originally from. Charmaine competed her Bachelor's degree at Imperial College London, where she spent her final year working with Professor Anthony Barrett on the investigation of a synthetic route to nucleosides from isonitriles and Meldrum's acid. She subsequently spent a year working on peptide synthesis at A*STAR. Charmaine's academic interests lie mainly in the total synthesis of natural products with a medicinal application. Outside of chemistry, Charmaine enjoys reading, playing the piano and the harp, and being involved in church.
Chris is from the Cotswolds and achieved his MChem degree at Oriel College, University of Oxford. During his Part II project, Chris worked on Prof Tim Donohoe's group on Palladium-catalysed arylation of OBO protected pyruvates. He also spent the Summer of 2015 at Perm State University in Russia, developing methodology for the Cu-catalysed reaction of methylfuran with salicylaldehyde derivatives. At the end of his DPhil, he is hoping to either move into the pharmaceutical industry or stay in academia. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing squash (and the odd bit of hockey), skiing, reading and baking.
Ciaran is from Cheltenham and graduated with a Masters in Natural Science from the University of Cambridge in 2017. In his masters project Ciaran worked under Prof. Paterson as part of a team working on the synthesis and stereochemical characterisation of hemicalide. In his spare time he enjoys archery, ultimate frisbee, board games and sketching.
Originally from Buckinghamshire, Dan completed his MChem degree at University College, University of Oxford. During his Part II year Dan worked under the supervision of Prof. Darren Dixon, investigating the total synthesis of the clavine alkaloids. His research interests within synthetic chemistry are broad, with particular interest in target synthesis and the development of novel methodology. Outside of chemistry Dan enjoys reading, music, and hiking.
Daniel is originally from Peterborough and obtained an MSci from the University of Nottingham. During his 3rd year, Daniel did an industrial placement at Sygnature Discovery working as part of Sygnature's contribution to the European Lead Factory (ELF) project. For his final year project, Daniel worked with Dr. James Dowden on exploring and validating a route to a natural product using a cyclopropane ring expansion. His academic interests lie in the development of new methodologies, in particular ones that allow for robust and efficient synthesis, and natural product synthesis. Daniel's biggest hobbies are board games and debating, having been a member of the Nottingham debating union for 3 years and competing in this Summer's European university championship.
Daniel graduated with a First Class Honours MChem degree from Cardiff University, having won two undergraduate awards for outstanding first year performance and best third year placement student. Daniel undertook a placement at Merck Chemicals Ltd in Chilworth, Southampton, studying the function various organic and siloxane copolymers as insulators and backplanes for OTFTs. His MChem research project under the supervision of Dr Louis C. Morrill was based on the synthesis of a family of Troponoloid derivatives and the screening of their Lewis base organocatalytic functionality within the Steglich rearrangement. Recently, Daniel undertook a summer project at the University of Oxford under the supervision of Prof. Steve G. Davies, using N and O trading methodology in the asymmetric synthesis of the natural product Sphingofungin B. Daniel's hobbies include running, playing guitar and seeing mates for a pint at the pub.
Daniella is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2018. She recently graduated with a First Class Honours MChem degree from the University of York. She completed her Master's thesis at F. Hoffmann La Roche, Switzerland, exploring the synthesis of novel macrocyclic peptides as antimicrobials. Daniella's main interests lie in the development of asymmetric methodologies for drug discovery. Outside of chemistry, Daniella loves to travel, ice skate, play netball and go hiking.
Daniya is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Born in Moscow, Russia, Dana moved to UK for her A-levels in Bromsgrove followed by an MChem degree at the University of Oxford. She did two summer internships at Imperial College London working in synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry areas. After her third year, Dana did an internship in AstraZeneca in synthetic oncology chemistry. For her final year Part II project, she worked in Prof Tim Donohoe's group towards the Total Synthesis of (+)-Lophotoxin. Dana really enjoys working in the lab and performing interesting synthetic reactions! Outside Chemistry she enjoys travelling, spending time with friends and cooking.
David is originally from Cambridgeshire, and graduated with a First Class degree in Chemistry from Oxford in 2015. David was an undergraduate at Merton College and completed his Part II project in the Gouverneur group, synthesising a novel PET tracer. David has a diverse interest in organic chemistry, particularly with an application to medicine. In his free time, David enjoys gliding and photography, as well as walking and cycling in the countryside.
Originally from a small village in Vorarlberg, Austria, Denis recently graduated with a First Class Honours MChem degree from the University of Oxford, St. Anne's College. During his Part II year, he worked in Prof Jonathan Burton's group on the synthesis of stereodefined tetrasubstituted alkenes. Previously, Denis did a 2-month summer project at LMU Munich in the Lotsch group, working on moisture-responsive Bragg-reflectors; his research interests span from materials chemistry to total synthesis. Besides the lab, Denis has a passion for cooking and baking, exploring the cuisines of the world. He also enjoys playing the bassoon, longboarding, videogames, languages, arts and literature.
Diana is the recipient of a Magdalen College Graduate Scholarship. Originally from a small Romanian town, Diana completed her MSci in Chemistry at Imperial College London. Her final year project, under the supervision of Professor Chris Braddock, explored some novel Ru-catalysed olefin metathesis processes. Previously, Diana was part of a student team led by Professor Tony Cass, working towards a biosensor for vancomycin and representing Imperial College internationally at the SensUs 2018 competition. In the summer of 2019, she joined Professor Don Craig's group to investigate a route towards the synthesis of morphine. Diana is very interested in organic synthesis and methodology, and hopes her DPhil will allow her to further this passion. In her spare time, Diana enjoys hanging out with her friends, travelling, ice-skating, karaoke, and most importantly...good coffee!
Dimitri comes from a small town near Grenoble, France. After graduating with a Master's degree from the Graduate School of Chemistry of Montpellier, in the south of France, Dimitri did several internships in Europe: 3 months at Dublin City University in Dr. Kieran Nolan's group on the development of a new photocatalyst for the oxygenation of organic compounds; one year in Monheim in Rhein, Germany, where he synthesised molecules for crop protection at Bayer CropScience; and lastly, for his Master thesis at F. Hoffmann-La Roche in Basel, Switzerland to develop small molecules for ophthalmology. His academic interests are in total synthesis, cascade reactions and asymmetric catalysis. Outside of work, Dimitri enjoys cooking, reading, playing the guitar and skiing.
Dmitri is the recipient of a Hill Foundation Scholarship 2022. Originally from the small town of Yoshkar-Ola in central Russia, Dmitri graduated from Lomonosov Moscow State University with a First Class Honours MSc in Chemistry degree and the Gold Medal. During his final year project, he worked on the synthesis of new Z-selective ruthenium metathesis catalysts with unsymmetrical fluorinated NHC ligands and investigation of their catalytic activity. After graduation, Dmitri took part in a project devoted to the use of C-H activation for the design of trifluoromethyl-containing amino acids with different heterocyclic cores. His research interests include developing new methodologies for synthetic organic chemistry, with a particular focus on biologically active compounds, enantioselective synthesis and cascade reactions. Apart from academia, Dmitri enjoys travelling, playing the piano and the violin, reading, taking photographs and spending time with friends.
With a Biochemistry background, Lara obtained her DPhil at Oxford researching molecular and cell biology in the context of Parkinson's disease. She then moved to Imperial College London for postdoctoral research looking at genomics of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, before joining the SBM CDT team in 2014. Lara is responsible for overall coordination of the programme and day-to-day organisation, including admissions, marketing and liaising with SBM CDT industrial partners.
Originally from Esztergom, Hungary, Dániel obtained his BSc and MSc in chemistry at the University of Szeged, Hungary. After his first year, he started to work as a thesis student at Avidin Ltd., a local drug discovery company. His BSc thesis revolved around the in-depth investigation of a novel Brønsted acidic organocatalyst, with particular emphasis on the reaction mechanisms, and applications in synthetic organic chemistry. For his Master's dissertation, Dániel undertook an internship at Servier working on the synthesis of unknown heterocyclic entities with multicomponent and cascade strategies. During his degree he also took part in two summer schools in Tromsø, at The Arctic University of Norway, focusing on the industrial applications of organic chemistry and bioactive substance research. Dániel enjoys every aspect of organic chemistry, but is particularly interested in heterocyclic chemistry, multicomponent reactions, and homogeneous catalysis. When not in the lab, he enjoys hanging out with his friends, playing the guitar and watching a good movie.
Originally from Vilnius, Lithuania, Edvinas completed his MChem degree at the University of Oxford, Merton College. During his Part II year, he joined Prof Darren Dixon's group to work on novel methods for the photocatalytic generation and downstream reactivity of alpha-amino radical species. Previously, Edvinas did a 3-month medicinal chemistry internship at Vertex Pharmaceuticals. He has a broad interest in synthetic chemistry, especially (photo)catalysis and radical chemistry. Outside the lab, Edvinas enjoys going on walks, cooking and baking, trying out new restaurants and bars and spending time with family and friends.
Teddy is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Teddy grew up in London, and recently completed his undergraduate degree at Pembroke College, Oxford. During this time, he did his Part II project under the supervision of Prof. Tim Donohoe, working on the synthesis of cyclohexenes via a [1,5]-hydride shift - aldol cascade reaction. Teddy's research interests include new methodologies and their applications in synthesis. Outside of chemistry, Teddy enjoys rowing for his college, and cooking for friends.
Felix graduated from a double-degree programme with a Diplôme d'ingénieur from the ENSC Rennes and a M.Sc. degree from the Technische Universität Dresden. During his studies, Felix had the opportunity to broaden his academic knowledge through research projects at BASF and IPF Dresden. Intrigued by the power of organic chemistry, he completed his master's thesis on the synthesis of clerodane diterpenoids, under the supervision of Professor Peter Metz. His research interests include total synthesis, cascade reactions and organocatalysis. In his spare time, Felix enjoys playing volleyball, ballroom dancing and playing the guitar. He is also an avid student of foreign languages.
George grew up in Walsall, a town on the outskirts of Birmingham. He completed his MChem degree in Chemistry at the University of St Andrews, during which he received the Principal's Scholarship award for continued academic excellence. In his penultimate year, George undertook a summer research project at St Andrews in the group of Dr Andreas Stasch, focussing on the synthesis and reactivity of low-oxidation state NHC-stabilised boron complexes. His final year research project was carried out under Prof. Andrew Smith, working on the development of isothiourea-catalysed [2+2]-cycloaddition reactions with ammonium enolates and N-protected isatins. George's research interests very much lie at the centre of methodology development, with a particular focus on methods that employ the use of organocatalysts. Outside of the lab, George is involved in web development and graphics design with a few small businesses, and enjoys travelling, golfing, listening to music and catching up with friends in his spare time.
Harry is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2019. Originally from Devon, Harry graduated in 2018 with First Class BA MSc degrees in Natural Sciences, specialising in Chemistry, from Girton College, University of Cambridge. During his master's year, he worked under the supervision of Prof David Spring investigating the use of enantioselective nickel schiff base complexes for amino acid synthesis and how stapled peptides can target protein-protein interactions. After graduating, Harry spent a year working at Charles River Laboratories as a Medicinal Chemist, focusing on the synthesis and development of novel antiviral drug candidates. His research interests span the whole of synthetic chemistry, with natural product and medicinal chemistry being of particular interest. Outside the lab, Harry is a keen footballer but also enjoys cycling, running and hiking. When inside he enjoys cooking, films and reading about science and history.
Helena completed her MChem degree at Exeter college, Oxford and for her final year project she worked with Prof Jeremy Robertson and Prof Luet Wong towards a total synthesis of trigoxyphins, incorporating the use of P450 enzymes for late stage functionalisation. At an internship with FitnessGenes, Helena learnt about genotyping and using genetic traits to specialise training methods. Helena is interested in the use of stereoselective and catalytic methodologies in the total synthesis of relevant compounds, and exploring new areas of chemistry. When not in the lab, she enjoys being out in the mountains ski racing, climbing and walking the dogs, with a bit of cycling and horse riding too!
Henry is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Originally from Hong Kong, Henry completed his MChem degree at Christ Church College, University of Oxford in 2018. During his fourth year, he worked under the supervision of Prof Chris Schofield, investigating how serine beta-lactamases interact with beta-lactams and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Henry's interests include probe development for understanding biological systems, natural product chemistry and medicinal chemistry, particularly for treating cancer and infections. Outside the lab he enjoys reading, playing badminton and travelling.
Hollie grew up on The Wirral, Merseyside, and completed her 4-year MChem degree in Chemistry with Research in Industry at the University of Liverpool. During her 3rd year Hollie worked for Eli Lilly as part of the global Technical Services/Manufacturing Science team as a process development chemist. There she worked on a range of projects including scaling up new pharmaceuticals for manufacture and improving the efficiency of existing onsite pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. For her master's project, Hollie worked under Prof. Rick Cosstick and designed and synthesised nucleoside inhibitors designed around PAPS (3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulfate) for tyrosylprotein sulfotransferase to investigate biological sulfonation processes. Hollie's interests lie in natural product total synthesis and drug discovery. In her spare time, she enjoys painting, golf, training with her springer spaniel and being a brownie guide leader.
Holly is from Malmesbury in Wiltshire and completed her MChem at the University of Southampton. For her final year project she worked on small molecule synthesis using organozirconium chemistry, and during her third year completed a placement in analytical chemistry within manufacturing at GlaxoSmithKline in Worthing. Holly's interests in organic chemistry include cascade reactions, organometallics and structure-activity relationships involved in medicinal chemistry. Outside of the lab she enjoys looking after carnivorous plants, badminton and playing video games!
Jack is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Originally from Beijing, China, he graduated with an MSci in Natural Sciences from University College London. Jack completed his 4th year project under the supervision of Dr Vijay Chudasama, where he optimized an addition-elimination reaction of acyl hydrazides. His research interests include the development of new synthetic methods and asymmetric synthesis. Outside of the lab, Jack enjoys reading, watching movies and waking up at unsociable hours to go rowing.
Jack is originally from London; he completed his undergraduate degree at Trinity College, University of Oxford. During his Part II project, Jack worked in Prof. Martin Smith's group investigating an enantioselective synthesis of heterohelicenes using a chiral counterion-directed approach. Jack's interests in organic chemistry lie in asymmetric catalysis and the total synthesis of biologically relevant compounds. Outside of the lab, Jack enjoys cooking, drinking, and travelling.
James graduated with a MChem degree from the University of Warwick, attaining The Salters Graduate prize, The Year 4 MChem Prize and The Year 3 Enterprise Prize. He spent his industrial placement year in Belgium, working at Janssen Pharmaceutica (Pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson) synthesising γ-secretase modulators for the treatment of Alzheimer's. During his Master's project James worked under the guidance of Prof. Rachel O'Reilly synthesising amphiphilic diblock copolymers that self-assemble into catalytic nanoreactors. James is particularly interested in the application of novel catalytic methodologies in organic synthesis. Outside of the lab, he enjoys football, surfing, real ale and listening to various genres of electronic music.
Jessica is the recipient of an EPSRC Excellence Award. Originally from County Durham, Jessica completed her MChem at Somerville College, University of Oxford. Her Master's project, under the supervision of Prof. Angela Russell, involved the mechanistic study and one-pot synthesis of small molecules containing a novel fragment in medicinal chemistry. During her degree, Jessica designed and delivered an outreach project centred on the chemistry involved in baking. Her academic interests include the development of new synthetic methodologies, particularly using homogeneous catalysis, and their applications in synthesising biologically relevant compounds. Outside of the lab, Jessica enjoys horse-riding, baking and singing.
Jessica is originally from Wolverhampton, and graduated in 2016 with a First Class MChem from the University of Oxford. Jessica was an undergraduate at St John's College and completed her Part II project in the Russell group, synthesising photoaffinity and pulldown probes for chemical proteomics-based target identification studies for use in treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Academic interests include total synthesis and exploration into new synthetic methods. In her free time, Jessica enjoys swimming, walking and baking.
Jonathan is originally from Lincoln (UK) but has spent time living in Mons (Belgium) and Naples and Rome (Italy). He obtained his MChem from the University of Sheffield, during which he did an industrial placement at GlaxoSmithKline. His masters project was completed under the supervision of Dr. Ben Partridge, developing conditions for the copper catalysed Chan-Lam coupling for the use with alkylboronic esters. His academic interests are mostly focused upon developing new methodologies. Outside of the lab, Jonathan spends most of his time on a bike, as he competes in various triathlon and cycling events throughout the year.
Jonathan completed his MChem at Lincoln College, Oxford. In his final year he undertook a Part II project with Prof Darren Dixon synthesising novel bifunctional iminophosphorane organocatalysts and researching their reactions. He is particularly interested in asymmetric catalysis as well as total synthesis and hopes to work towards a career in academia or the pharmaceutical industry. Away from the fume hood Jonathan enjoys cricket, playing the guitar, going to gigs and drawing.
Jonathan completed his MChem at St Catherine's College, Oxford. In his final year he worked on the development of a novel synthetic route to Salinosporamide C under the supervision of Prof. Jeremy Robertson. Jonathan is interested in the synthesis of natural products and their use as lead compounds for drug discovery. Outside the lab he enjoys watching all forms of motorsport and spending time exploring the pubs of Oxford.
Jon is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Born in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, Jon spent much of his childhood there before moving to Singapore. Jon was an undergraduate at Lincoln College, University of Oxford, and worked in Prof. Ed Anderson's group for his Part II project, which focused on the development of Rh-catalysed asymmetric ynamide cycloisomerisations. During the course of his DPhil, he hopes to learn more about the use of physical techniques - particularly NMR - to study organic reactions and molecules. Outside of the lab, Jon plays the violin, flute, and piano (although not all at the same time), and also enjoys occasionally baking.
Jos is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Fund Scholarship. He grew up in Pannerden a small village in the eastern part of the Netherlands. After completing his bachelor degree at the HAN university, Jos pursued a Master's degree in chemistry at the Radboud University Nijmegen, Netherlands. During this time, he was involved in research on the chemical basis for the recognition of trimethyllysine by reader proteins, under direct supervision of Dr. Jasmin Mecinović. After completing an internship funded by the Radboud Honours Academy at the Leigh group in Manchester, Jos returned to Nijmegen to continue working in the field of chemical biology for a year. His academic interests revolve around understanding biological processes at an atomic level using organic chemistry. Outside the lab, Jos enjoys listening to music, watching series and playing video games.
Joseph is the recipient of a CASE Conversion award with Syngenta. Originally from Reading, Joe graduated in September 2019 with a First Class MChem degree from Magdalen College, University of Oxford. He worked under the supervision of Prof Veronique Gouverneur for his master's project, which focused on the synthesis of organocatalysts for nucleophilic fluorination reactions. He previously spent the summer of 2018 at the Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung in the group of Prof Tobias Ritter working on the thianthrenation and trifluoromethylation of arenes. In his spare time, he enjoys travelling, going to the pub and trying to speak German.
Originally from Bristol, Joe completed his undergraduate MChem at the University of Oxford where his research project was based in medicinal chemistry. Having now returned to St John's College for a further four years, Joe looks forward to working towards his DPhil at the CDT; he plans to use this opportunity to continue drug development, and discover the world of total synthesis and new synthetic methods. In his spare time Joe enjoys swimming and cycling, and looks forward to continuing his training in martial arts.
Originally from Norfolk, Josh completed his four-year Natural Sciences course at the University of Cambridge. During his Master's project he worked in Prof. David Spring's group to optimise the novel hydroxylation of a promising anti-cancer drug, then investigated the mechanism. He has a broad interest in organic synthesis, particularly the field of physical organic chemistry, and its application to a whole array of different real-world problems including organic materials and medicinal chemistry. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with friends.
Julia is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2022. Originally from Warsaw, Poland, she completed her MChem degree at St John's College, University of Oxford. Prior to her undergraduate experience, Julia worked as an intern in six different research groups in Poland on topics ranging from physical to organic chemistry. Her Master's project in Prof. Ed Anderson's group focused on the reactivity of new classes of yndiamides, which strengthened her interest in transition metal catalysis. In addition, Julia has a keen interest in green chemistry and hopes to make science more sustainable as a part of her research career. Outside the lab, Julia gets involved in the Polish community, and her hobbies include logic games and working out at the gym.
Junfu is the recipient of an A*STAR National Science Scholarship (PhD) from Singapore, where he is originally from. Junfu obtained his BA in Natural Sciences at St. Edmund's College, University of Cambridge in 2019, where he had undergone a research attachment under Prof. Erwin Reisner and Dr. Shafeer Kalathil on investigating bacteria-nanoparticle composite for solar fuel production. He then spent a year working on synthesis of dioxetane-based probe at A*STAR. Junfu's academic interests lie mainly in the design and synthesis of probes for imaging to better understand biological systems. Outside of chemistry, Junfu enjoys reading, playing sports and computer games.
Kathryn is the recipient of a Commonwealth PhD Scholarship. Originally from Sydney, Australia, Kate completed her BSc Hons at the University of Sydney working on the synthesis and photophysical characterisation of organic fluorophores. She is interested in chemical biology and supramolecular chemistry, and designing chemical tools for investigating biological systems. In her free time Kate likes to play team sports, go bushwalking, and hang out with friends.
Originally from Brest (France), Kilian completed his undergraduate Masters at the University of Montpellier and Mulhouse National School of Chemistry where his research project brought him overseas to the USA for a year at Scynexis, Inc. and to F. Hoffmann-La Roche for 6 months in Switzerland. He is looking forward to working towards his DPhil at the CDT in areas such as total synthesis, new synthetic methods and more. He's planning on working in the pharmaceutical industry in his future career. Outside of work, he pays volleyball and badminton and is interested in making homemade 3D pictures with a regular camera.
Klemensas is originally from Vilnius, Lithuania. He recently completed his MSci degree in Chemistry at the University of Nottingham, with a year-long placement at GlaxoSmithKline working as a synthetic organic chemist. Under the supervision of Dr. Thomas Mcinally and Dr. Simon Macdonald (GSK), Klemensas's final year project focused on the design and synthesis of novel vbeta6 inhibitors. For his DPhil, Klemensas hopes to further build on his knowledge of medicinal chemistry, its biological aspect in particular. Outside the lab, Klemensas enjoys playing the cello and bass guitar, watching TV shows, and exercising.
Originally from Hertfordshire, Katherine completed an MChem in Chemistry, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry at the University of York, during which she carried out a one-year placement at Bayer CropScience in Frankfurt am Main, Germany on the synthesis of novel herbicides. She also completed a summer placement at Cancer Research UK Therapeutic Discovery Laboratories in Cambridge working in the medicinal chemistry team on an oncology drug discovery project. Katherine has a broad interest in the organic synthesis of biologically active compounds and medicinal chemistry. Outside the lab she enjoys dancing, baking and spending time with friends and family.
Elliot is the recipient of the Lady Margaret Hall-SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship 2018. Originally from Cheshire, Elliot graduated with a First Class MChem degree from the University of Oxford in 2018. He completed his Part II project with Prof Stuart Conway, working towards the synthesis of (and evaluating the biological activity of) novel hypoxia-activated prodrugs. He has a broad interest in organic chemistry but particularly in its application to the life sciences, where a huge impact can be made. Outside the lab Elliot enjoys playing the guitar and singing, mostly in a functions band called Wayne & the Hairy Peaches, travelling, tutoring chemistry and English, going to gigs, playing cricket, and watching football.
Originally from Manchester, Charlie graduated with a First Class Honours MSci degree in Chemistry from the University of Nottingham. During his third year, he undertook a placement at F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Switzerland, where he was involved in the development of biologically active small molecules for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Charlie completed his Master's project under the supervision of Prof. Hon Lam, investigating the nickel-catalysed, diastereoselective synthesis of 3-methyleneindan-1-ols. His research interests include the development of novel methodologies, in particular their application within medicinal chemistry. Outside the lab, Charlie enjoys playing lots of sports, cooking and travelling.
Mihai is the recipient of the Lady Margaret Hall-SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship 2017. He obtained his MChem degree from the University of Manchester. For his final year project, he had the oportunity to work with Prof. David J. Procter on samarium diiodide mediated cascade reactions towards the total synthesis of Phaeocaulisin A. His current academic interests include development of synthetic methodology that can be applied towards total synthesis of natural products, as well as computational chemistry. Outside the lab, he enjoys traveling, listening to music and watching a good movie.
Originally from Slovakia, Lucia obtained her BSc Hons in Chemistry at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava. For her thesis Lucia worked on Pd(II)-catalysed oxycarbonylation cyclizations of homoallylic alcohols under the supervision of Prof Gracza. Lucia's research interests lie in natural compounds and new methods to synthesise them. In her free time, she enjoys going out with friends, cooking or watching series. In winter, Lucia loves spending time snowboarding on the mountains.
Robert is the recipient of the Lady Margaret Hall-SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship 2016. Robert graduated from the University of Southampton in 2015 with an MChem degree, having worked on the diastereoselective synthesis of fluorinated diols under the supervision of Prof Bruno Linclau for his masters research project. Following graduation, Robert continued to work in Prof Linclau's lab for a further 5 months, preparing a series of fluorinated glucose and galactose derivatives. Robert's research interests include methodology and total synthesis, especially when applicable to medicine. In his spare time Robert enjoys travelling, hiking, scuba diving, swimming in the sea, and going to the pub.
Born in London, Jimmy completed his MChem degree with a year in industry at the University of Warwick. He spent his placement year at AstraZeneca, synthesising small drug molecules for the treatment of cancer. Before starting his DPhil at the University of Oxford, Jimmy returned to AstraZeneca for a summer placement where he worked on synthetic methodology projects. In his spare time Jimmy enjoys relaxing outside, socialising with friends, and listening to music.
Tudor is the recipient of the Lady Margaret Hall-SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship 2015. He graduated with a BA and MSci from the University of Cambridge, in the summer of 2015. For his final year, Tudor worked under the guidance of Prof. Ian Paterson, focusing on the total synthesis of Patellazole B. His current academic interests lie in the development of cascade reactions, asymmetric catalysis and total synthesis. When not working, Tudor enjoys cooking, playing snooker and reading.
Originally from Sheffield, Claire completed her MChem degree at the University of Warwick, where she spent her final year working with Dr David Fox on the use of NMR for the stereochemical assignment of isoleucine residues in peptides. During her degree, Claire also completed a URSS summer project in the group of Professor Mike Shipman on oxetane containing peptidomimetics for drug discovery. Claire also spent a week at GlaxoSmithKline on their Residential Chemistry Training Experience. Her main interests lie in the development of new methods for organic synthesis, and their application to total synthesis and drug discovery. Outside of the lab, Claire is a health and fitness enthusiast and competes in track and field athletics, so can probably be found in the gym or at the track. Other loves include musical theatre, cooking, and outdoor activities such as camping and hill walking.
Yao is the recipient of the Lady Margaret Hall SBM CDT Scholarship 2014. Yao graduated with a BA and MSci from the University of Cambridge, where he did his Part III project on asymmetric catalysis with Professor Matthew Gaunt. He is interested in a wide range of synthetic topics, including developing new synthetic methodology, asymmetric catalysis and applications to biologically important molecules. Outside of work, Yao enjoys sports - football and table tennis, watching films as well as travelling.
Originally from London, Lewis graduated with First Class honours MSci degree in Chemistry from the University of Bristol, and was awarded the Mike Rothwell Prize for best overall performance on the industry degree program. During his third year, Lewis undertook a one year internship at GlaxoSmithKline, working in drug discovery. In his final year, under the supervision of Professor John Bower, he investigated copper catalysed intramolecular hydroamidations of alkynes. More recently, Lewis completed a three month internship at Genentech in San Francisco, working on asymmetric enolate alkylation mediated by photoredox catalysis. Lewis's research interests are primarily in developing novel, metal catalysed methodologies. Outside of chemistry, he likes to spend his time cooking, photographing and listening/playing music.
Loane is from France and completed her Master's degree in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh in 2015. She spent a year as an ERASMUS student at the University of Alicante working under Prof Carmen Nàjera Domingo on asymmetric synthesis of α,β-diamino acids. For her Master's project she worked under Prof Paul Barlow on peptide synthesis and use of NMR for peptide identification and binding studies. She looks forward to discovering more of the wonderful world of organic chemistry during her DPhil. In her spare time Loane enjoys reading, sculpturing, travelling and skiing.
Lucy recently graduated with a First Class Honours MSci degree in Chemistry from Queen's University, Belfast. During the summer of 2014 she completed a summer project with Dr Kiril Tchabanenko at Queen's around dipolar cycloadditions. The following year she was the recipient of the RSC Undergraduate Research Bursary and completed a summer project under the supervision of Prof Alan Spivey at Imperial College, London, based on the asymmetric synthesis of phosphorothioate nucleotides using novel catalysis. Her Master's project was completed in the research group of Prof Paul Stevenson working towards the total synthesis of Pancratistatin, using interesting sigmatropic rearrangements towards an important precursor. Her interests lie in combining the development of new synthetic methodologies towards the synthesis of new, interesting molecules. Outside of chemistry she enjoys travelling, horse riding and a good glass of wine (or two..).
Lucy is the recipient of the Balliol-Devorguilla Scholarship 2016. Lucy is from Ireland and graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Chemistry from University College Dublin in 2016. During the final year of her undergraduate degree, she had the opportunity to work under the supervision of Prof.Pat Guiry. Her research focused on developing Pd-catalysed decarboxylative asymmetric protonation for sterically hindered alpha aryl lactones. Outside of organic chemistry, she has previously applied her chemical skills working with Intel in 2015 and with a multidisciplinary energy research group in 2013. When not working, Lucy loves to travel. She also enjoys playing the cello and the piano.
Originally from Kaunas, Lithuania, Lukas completed his MSci Natural Sciences degree at University College London with First Class Honours, specialising in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and Biomedical Sciences. Supervised by Prof David Selwood and Dr Valeria Pingitore, his Master's project focused on the synthesis of proteolysis-targeting chimaeras (PROTACs) for the treatment of the Epstein-Barr Virus. During his studies, Lukas also briefly worked on Quantum Dot display technology at Huawei R&D, and synthesized deuterated HSET inhibitor analogues at The Institute of Cancer Research. Lukas' main academic interests include Medicinal Chemistry, total synthesis of natural products, and novel synthetic methodology, with a particular focus on organocatalysis and transition metal catalysis. In his free time, Lukas enjoys reading books, gaming, jogging, swimming, and spending time in nature.
Valentin is the recipient of the Oxford-RE Jones Scholarship 2023. Originally from Sofia, Bulgaria, Valentin completed his MChem degree at Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford. He joined Prof. Ed Anderson's group for a summer internship and for his Part II year where he researched novel bioisosteres and their functionalisation. His research interests lie in novel methodologies and their use in medicinal chemistry. Outside the lab Valentin enjoys swimming, running, and cooking new vegan recipes (with various degrees of success).
Lydia is the recipient of a St Anne's-SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship. She graduated from the University of Bristol where she was awarded the Richard Dixon prize for the best performance on the straight MSci programme. Lydia spent the summer of 2016 with Prof Paul Brennan at the University of Oxford synthesising covalent chemical probes for use in drug discovery. She then spent the following summer on an industrial placement at AstraZeneca in Cambridge working towards more environmentally sustainable Suzuki reactions. Her Master's project was carried out with Prof John Bower working towards the total synthesis of cytochalasin natural products using a rhodium catalysed cycloaddition. Lydia's academic interests lie towards both natural product total synthesis and the development of novel, metal-catalysed processes. Interests outside of the lab include going to gigs, cooking, watching athletics and playing hockey.
Maddison is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2023. She grew up in Berkshire, and now lives in Bath, Somerset. She completed her MChem degree in Chemistry at the University of St Andrews. This included an external placement at GSK, Stevenage, working as a synthetic organic chemist in the chemical modalities department. Maddison was supervised by Prof. Allan Watson for her final year project, working on the development of asymmetric photocatalytic cross-coupling using styrene boronic acids, for which she was awarded the GSK prize for the best honours research project in organic chemistry. After this, Maddison stayed in the Watson group for a summer placement, working on Chan-Lam couplings of benzoxaboroles. Maddison is keen to continue undergoing research into novel reaction methodologies, specifically those which are photocatalytic. Aside from chemistry, Maddison enjoys going to the gym, baking, and spending time with friends.
Stanley is the recipient of an MPLS Academic Futures scholarship. Before joining the SBM CDT, he received the 2019 Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship from Liberia to study Advanced Pharmaco-Science under the direct supervision of Prof. Shuji Akai at Osaka University, Japan. He conducted his MPharm project in the field of chemo-biocatalysis, focusing on lipase-oxovanadium co-catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution of dual stereogenic secondary allylic alcohols. Stanley is interested in the design and application of synthetic methodologies in response to the growing demand for structurally diverse bioactive molecules. Outside of the laboratory, he enjoys reading and writing short stories and poems; in 2021, he self-published "Selenium", a collection of poems, on Amazon.
Originally from Warsaw, Poland, Marcin recently graduated with a First Class Honours MChem degree from the University of Oxford (Jesus College). He completed his Part II project under the supervision of Prof Tom Brown on the synthesis of RNA with amide linkage modification. While working on the final year project, Marcin developed interests in the area of chemical biology which he is planning to focus on during his DPhil. Marcin often moves the lab to the kitchen, where he is keen on exploring new recipes and developing his passion for cooking. In his spare time, Marcin also enjoys riding longboard and attending music festivals. At heart, a real singing enthusiast with his girlfriend being his most devoted (and probably the only…) fan.
Marie is from Cameron Highlands, Malaysia, and completed her MChem degree at the University of Oxford. Her Part II project, supervised by Prof Ed Anderson, investigated the design of novel phosphoramidite ligands for asymmetric cycloisomerizations. Marie has also worked with Prof John Hartwig at UC Berkeley on palladium-catalysed arylation reactions and with Prof Scott Miller at Yale University to develop peptide-based catalysts for the Baeyer-Villiger oxidation. When not in the lab, Marie enjoys traveling, photography and music.
Martin grew up near Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, and completed his MSci in Chemistry degree at Imperial College London. His master's project was under the supervision of Professor Matthew Fuchter and focused on the development of novel azoheteroarene photoswitches for potential use in pharmacology. He previously worked with Professor Britovsek at Imperial to investigate the catalytic conversion of cyrene, and at the National Institute of Chemistry in Ljubljana, where he investigated the mechanism of NLP protein toxicity in plants. His primary interests in organic chemistry lie in medicinally relevant synthetic methods and compounds. Outside of the laboratory his main interests are electronic music, skiing, cooking, and photography.
Mary grew up in Buckinghamshire and received her MChem from the University of Oxford in 2018. She completed her Master's project under the supervision of Prof Stuart Conway on the use of dynamic combinatorial chemistry to identify novel activators for the Gram-negative bacteria potassium efflux system. During her degree, Mary did a summer internship at the Institute of Cancer Research in London under the supervision of Prof Ian Collins, working on the synthesis of inhibitors for the microtubule-associated kinesin HSET which plays a critical role in the survival of centrosome-amplified breast cancer cells. In her spare time, Mary plays the piano and cello, reads, sews clothes, and spends time with her family.
Originally from Rawtenstall, a small town outside of Manchester, Matt recently graduated with a First-Class Honours MChem degree in Chemistry from the University of St Andrews. As part of his degree, Matt undertook a 12-month industrial placement at Roche in Basel focusing on lead optimisation. Matt also completed the ‘Laidlaw Scholarship in Research and Leadership', including a studentship in the Zysman-Colman group working towards the synthesis of deep blue emitting thermally activated delayed fluorescent molecules, and a ‘Leadership in Action' project developing an online learning platform for young chemists. In his final year, Matt worked under the supervision of Prof. Rebecca Goss investigating the enzymatic functionalisation of aromatic substrates and their subsequent chemical diversification. Matt's current research interests include the synthesis of structurally complex molecules and their applications in biological systems. Outside the lab Matt enjoys learning new languages, playing basketball, and going to the gym.
Melodie achieved a first class MChem degree at Pembroke College, Oxford in the summer of 2014. She is interested in drug development and hopes to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry. She has completed summer internships at Novartis and MSD, and participated in GSK's Residential Chemistry Training Experience. Her Part II research project, supervised by Dr Jeremy Robertson, was on the synthesis of drug molecules for the treatment of ERF-related craniosynostosis in collaboration with Professor Andrew Wilkie at the WIMM. Melodie has volunteered for Schools Plus, providing tutoring Maths and Chemistry at St Gregory the Great Catholic school, and is also involved in the University's Chemistry outreach programme. Outside of academia, she likes to do netball and yoga in her spare time.
Mia is the recipient of the Oxford-RE Jones Scholarship 2019. She recently graduated from the University of Leeds and was awarded the Craig Jordan Medicinal Chemistry Prize for the best performance on the MChem Medicinal Chemistry programme. Mia completed her MChem project under the supervision of Prof. Adam Nelson, using activity-directed synthesis in the discovery of novel kinase inhibitors. As part of her degree, Mia also spent a year working in Process Chemistry at GSK, Stevenage. Outside of academia, Mia holds a skydiving license, and enjoys playing music.
Hailing from the South Coast of England, Michael has completed a MSci in Chemistry at Imperial College London, receiving the award for Excellence in Practical Organic Chemistry. As part of his degree programme Michael spent a year alongside medicinal chemists at GSK, Stevenage learning about modern approaches to drug design and synthesis. Prior to this placement, he was awarded funding to join the Tanner lab in British Columbia in 2016 where he worked towards a novel antibiotic class. In his final year project Michael explored a new area in developing air-sensitive frustrated Lewis pair catalysts in a collaboration between the Fuchter and Ashley groups. More recently, Michael took the opportunity to learn about chemical kinetics at the University of Manchester under the direction of Dr Jordi Burés and he looks forward to applying this experience and other physical organic concepts within the SBM CDT. Like many chemists, Michael enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, keeping up with current events and racket sports.
Michael was born in Essex but raised in Hertfordshire, and completed his MChem degree at Keble College, Oxford. During his Part II year, Michael was supervised by Prof Michael Willis and collaborated with Prof Rob Paton, working on a project that attempted to determine the mechanism of Rhodium catalysed hydroacylation of sulphur tethered aldehydes, using a combined experimental and computational approach. For his DPhil, Michael is looking forward to learning more about the mechanism of metal mediated processes as well as exploring new areas of chemistry. When not tinkering in the lab or calculating something on the computer, he enjoys talking too much and travelling the world; Michael is also excited to immerse himself in graduate life and taking up new hobbies.
Originally from Rome, Italy, Michele completed his MSci degree in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry at the University of Nottingham. As part of his degree, he spent one year on placement at Chiesi Farmaceutici in Parma, Italy, synthesizing new PI3K inhibitors to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. During his final year Michele worked in Dr Liam Ball's group developing nickel catalysts for use in an aromatic Finkelstein reaction. His research interests lie in novel catalytic reactions, especially using earth abundant transition metals. Outside of work Michele enjoys watching films, eating and travelling.
Originally from Przemyśl, Poland, Mikołaj completed several short research internships in Warsaw during his high school years, and brought home a bronze medal from the International Chemistry Olympiad. Subsequently, Mikołaj read for his MSci in Natural Sciences at St Catharine's College, Cambridge, specialising in Chemistry. During his degree, Mikołaj completed internships in prebiotic chemistry in the Sutherland and Krishnamurthy groups at the MRC LMB (Cambridge), and Scripps Research (San Diego), respectively. In his fourth year, he performed his Part III project with Prof. Melinda Duer, investigating the mechanism of action of two natural product extracellular matrix cross-linkers. While maintaining a broad interest in organic chemistry, Mikołaj has a soft spot for mechanistically guided development of new reactivities. Outside of the lab, he enjoys learning about mediaeval music, cooking, and the sports of swimming and blind wine tasting.
Minh read Chemistry as an undergraduate at St Peter's College, Oxford. She spent her fourth year working with the Edward Anderson group on a synthesis project, leading to a Masters in Chemistry. She is looking forward to joining the CDT programme to pursue her interest in natural products, and to expand her understanding of the on-going research in the department. In her spare time, Minh plays the piano and/or sings for the Gilbert and Sullivan society.
Miranda completed her MChem degree at the University of Warwick in June 2014. Her placement year was spent at Novartis Pharmaceuticals in which she was involved in a medicinal chemistry project for the treatment of asthma. Under the supervision of Professor Mike Shipman, Miranda's master's project was focused on an asymmetric synthetic step towards a natural product. Her research interests are in the field of organic synthesis, in particular the development of new synthetic methodology and the total synthesis of natural products. In her spare time, Miranda enjoys playing the flute as part of a wind orchestra.
Originally from Reading, Morgan completed his MChem degree at University College at the University of Oxford. During his Part II project with Prof Jeremy Robertson, he worked on a number of synthetic routes towards indane fragments utilising Diels-Alder reactivity, contributing towards an investigation into enzyme-based methodologies. He has a broad interest in organic synthesis, focusing especially on total synthesis and its application in medicinal chemistry. Outside of the lab, Morgan enjoys hanging out with friends, watching films and reading.
Moses was born and raised in Battersea, South London. He graduated in 2014 at the University of Leicester with a first-class honours MChem Chemistry degree. As part of his degree he carried out a research project on an ERASMUS year abroad at Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, France and also carried out an RSC/Nuffield Foundation sponsored project at his home institution in 2013. Moses's interests lie in anti-cancer drug design/development using a personalised medicine approach. In the future, Moses intends on specialising in research involving this with the intention of developing his own start up company. Much of Moses's leisure time involves going to the gym, playing football or flyfishing.
Mustafa graduated from Queen Mary, University of London, with a first-class honours MSci Pharmaceutical Chemistry degree. Mustafa completed a 12-month industrial placement at GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, working as a medicinal chemist in the Allergic Inflammation DPU. He then carried out his Master's research project under the supervision of Dr Peter Wyatt, focussing on synthesising novel agonists for the Hedgehog Signalling Pathway. Mustafa's future aspiration is to be a medicinal chemist, conducting research either in industry or academia. Outside of academia, he enjoys playing sports, backpacking, meeting up with friends and playing piano.
Nada obtained an MSci degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from Queen Mary University of London. She was more than privileged to have worked for Dr Christopher R. Jones during two consecutive summer projects and her final masters project; all harnessing the reactivity of Arynes for novel methodologies. Away from the lab, Nada enjoys traveling, cycling and music.
Originally from Reading, Nandini completed her MChem degree at St Catherine's College, University of Oxford. During her Part II year, she worked in Prof. Darren Dixon's group, investigating the total synthesis of polycyclic natural products. Prior to this, she undertook a summer internship in the Dixon group, working on a novel methodology for the construction of complex saturated heterocycles. Nandini is particularly interested in the applications of asymmetric catalysis to the synthesis of medicinally-relevant molecules. Outside of the lab, she enjoys baking and spending time with friends.
Ndi is from south east London, and completed her Master's degree in Chemistry at Imperial College London. During the summer of 2016 she worked under the supervision of Prof. Jason Hein at the University of British Colombia. Her project involved synthesising novel ionic liquids via Click chemistry. She undertook her final year project with Prof Anthony Barrett, developing enantioselective syntheses of novel meroterpenoids using palladium-catalyzed decarboxylative allyl migration reactions. Ndi's interests lie in total synthesis and structure-activity relationships in drug discovery. In her spare time, Ndi enjoys singing, videography and Afrobeat dance.
Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Niamh completed her MChem degree in Medicinal Chemistry at the University of St Andrews. During her fourth year, Niamh undertook a one-year research internship at F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Switzerland, where she was involved in the synthesis of novel small molecules in the areas of oncology and neuroscience. Having focused on natural product synthesis in her final year, she has a keen interest in the application of innovative synthetic methodologies to the design of biologically active scaffolds. Outside of chemistry, Niamh enjoys cooking, dancing and soaking up new cultures through travelling.
Nick graduated with a MSci and BA in Natural Sciences from Christ's College, Cambridge in summer 2015. His Part III project with Professor Matthew Gaunt focused on a novel total synthesis of amathaspiramide B, utilising palladium catalysed C-H activation. His research interests include the development of new synthetic methods, asymmetric catalysis and cascade reactions. Outside of work, Nick enjoys playing rugby, pub quizzes and video games in his spare time.
Nicoleta is the recipient of a Lincoln-Kingsgate SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship. Originally from Iasi, Romania, Nicoleta moved to Oxford for her undergraduate studies. There, she completed her Part II Project under the supervision of Prof Michael Willis, working on the development of new synthetic routes to α-keto-sulfonyl fluorides. Previously, Nicoleta had undertaken a summer industrial internship at Procter & Gamble, as well as a research one in the Oxford Chemistry working under the supervision of Dr Emily Flashman, on the expression, kinetic characterisation and development of potential inhibition pathways of a biologically active maize PCO enzyme. Nicoleta's academic interests are centred on developing new synthetic methods. Outside the lab, she enjoys travelling, reading, cooking and dancing.
Oliver completed an MChem at the University of Warwick, during which he spent a year working at Pfizer on organic synthesis and research into amide bond formation. His current research interests include utilising synthetic chemistry to design tools to understand and manipulate biological systems, with a future aim to focus on human immune system related challenges. Out of the lab he enjoys fencing, tennis and video games.
Oskar is the recipient of the Derek-Calam SBM CDT Graduate Scholarship 2023. Originally from north-west London, Oskar completed his MChem at Wadham College in 2023, completing his masters project under the supervision of Prof. Darren Dixon, investigating the application of catalytic, enantioselective 1,3-prototropic shifts in total synthesis. Prior to this, he spent a summer working in analytical chemistry and biosciences for Procter & Gamble, developing analytical and data-processing techniques to study novel lotions. In the lab, Oskar's interests lie in the total synthesis of natural products with potent biological properties and the development of new synthetic methodologies. Outside of the lab, Oskar is a keen hockey player and also enjoys playing squash, cycling, and cooking.
Originally from Rawtenstall, a small town outside of Manchester, Matt recently graduated with a First-Class Honours MChem degree in Chemistry from the University of St Andrews. As part of his degree, Matt undertook a 12-month industrial placement at Roche in Basel focusing on lead optimisation. Matt also completed the ‘Laidlaw Scholarship in Research and Leadership', including a studentship in the Zysman-Colman group working towards the synthesis of deep blue emitting thermally activated delayed fluorescent molecules, and a ‘Leadership in Action' project developing an online learning platform for young chemists. In his final year, Matt worked under the supervision of Prof. Rebecca Goss investigating the enzymatic functionalisation of aromatic substrates and their subsequent chemical diversification. Matt's current research interests include the synthesis of structurally complex molecules and their applications in biological systems. Outside the lab Matt enjoys learning new languages, playing basketball, and going to the gym.
Originally from Gmunden, Austria, Oskar graduated from Graz University of Technology. For his Master's thesis he visited the Ferrier Research Institute in Wellington, New Zealand, synthesizing enzyme inhibitors. For 6 months he worked at Hoffmann-La Roche in Basel, Switzerland, doing an industrial placement in small molecule process research. He is fascinated how highly complex structures can be built up by choosing elegant synthetic routes. In his spare time, Oskar is a dedicated sportsman: he sails, plays basketball and likes to spend his time in the mountains.
Owen completed his undergraduate degree at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. After summer research projects at KIT and Univeristät Ulm in organocatalysis and polyoxometalates respectively, he completed his Part II research project under the supervision of Prof Martin Smith on the methodological lacuna of asymmetric C acylation. His research interests centre on new synthetic methods and their application to biologically relevant molecules. When not in the lab, hiking or doing water sports, Owen can often be found putting Chemistry to good use through cooking, baking and amateur winemaking.
Originally from Southern France, Pablo completed his Master's degree at the Graduate School of Chemistry of Montpellier. Pablo had the opportunity to perform internships in asymmetric synthesis at Oxford University, and more recently in Grasse in a fragrance organic chemistry research lab. Both of these subjects were extremely interesting, and he hopes his DPhil will allow him to further his interest in (asymmetric) total synthesis and methodology, but the choice between the academic and the industrial world will be hard. Outside of chemistry, Pablo enjoys playing piano or cello, and is also interested in sports, movies and books.
Originally from Ireland, Pearse completed his MChem degree at Balliol College, Oxford in 2017. For his master's project he worked under the supervision of Prof. Martin Smith to devise new synthetic routes to indole-derived atropisomers, and on the phase-transfer mediated kinetic resolution of the resulting compounds. Pearse's academic interests include asymmetric synthesis, and the applications of synthetic organic chemistry in chemical biology. In his free time, Pearse enjoys baking, spending time with friends, reading, and keeping fit by running.
Peter graduated with an MSci from the University of Glasgow. In his final year, Peter worked on designing a synthesis for the marine polyether Tamulamide B. As part of his degree, Peter carried out a 12 month work placement at Redx Oncology in Liverpool. His research interests focus mainly on the synthesis of natural products, which he hopes to work on during his DPhil, and afterwards in a career in academia. Outside of the lab, Peter enjoys reading, watching movies, as well as eating (and then attempting to run off!) good food.
Philip completed his MChem at Keble College, University of Oxford. During his Part II year he worked under the supervision of Prof Tim Donohoe on iridium-catalysed interrupted transfer hydrogenation of pyridinium salts to form substituted tetrahydropyridines and piperidines. Philip is interested in the development of synthetic methodologies and their application to the synthesis of biologically relevant compounds, in particular natural products. Outside of the lab, he enjoys walking and getting involved in a wide range of activities at his church.
Pol is the recipient of a St John's-SBM CDT Partnership Award. Originally from a small village close to Barcelona, Pol recently completed a four-year degree in Chemistry at the University of Barcelona. During this time, he carried out a placement in the Research Unit on Asymmetric Synthesis (Institute for Research in Biomedicine) before moving to London to carry out his final project under the supervision of Prof Alan C Spivey at Imperial College, developing the asymmetric synthesis of phosphorothioate dinucleosides. He then moved to GSK for a placement year where he worked on the design and synthesis of in vitro tool compounds. Outside the lab, Pol enjoys doing exercise, travelling, reading, learning economics and cooking.
Job Titles:
- Professor of Chemistry at the University of Oxford
Darren is Professor of Chemistry at the University of Oxford, where he holds the Knowles-Williams Tutorial Fellowship in Organic Chemistry at Wadham College. He has published more than 150 papers and was the recipient of the RSC's inaugural ‘Catalysis in Organic Chemistry Award', the ‘2010 AstraZeneca Research Award in Organic Chemistry' and an EPSRC Leadership Fellowship.
Job Titles:
- Professor of Organic Chemistry
Jonathan Burton is Professor of Organic Chemistry and a Tutorial Fellow at Somerville College. He heads-up a research group working on numerous aspects of organic synthesis, methodology, reactivity, and structure determination. Jonathan began his independent research career as a Royal Society University Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge (2000-2006) before moving to Oxford in 2007. Before this he was a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Cambridge with Andrew Holmes (methodology and natural product synthesis) and a Post-Doctoral researcher with Alex Alexakis in Paris (enantioselective catalysis). He obtained his B.A. (Chemistry) from the University of Oxford and his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge working with Andrew Holmes on medium-ring ether natural products.
Martin holds the Old Members' Helen Martin Fellowship at University College, Oxford. His research group is interested in all aspects of synthetic chemistry including total synthesis, asymmetric catalysis and the investigation of unusual hydrogen bonds.
Job Titles:
- Professor of Chemistry at the University of Oxford
Michael Willis is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Oxford, and a Fellow of Lincoln College. He graduated from Imperial College, University of London, before moving to the University of Cambridge for his PhD studies, working with Professor Steve Ley. He then spent two years as a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University working with Professor David Evans. In 1997 he returned to the UK and he was appointed to a Lectureship in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Bath. He moved to Oxford in January 2007, and was promoted to Full Professor in 2013. His research interests are based around the development of new catalytic processes and their application in synthesis, which has more recently included the development of new catalytic reactions using sulfur dioxide. His work has been recognised by the award of the 2015 Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Syngenta Process Chemistry Research Award, the 2014 Royal Society of Chemistry Catalysis in Organic Chemistry Award, and 2008 AstraZeneca Award in Synthetic Organic Chemistry.
Qian Wen was born and bred in the little sunny island of Singapore. Qian Wen graduated with a Bachelor's degree from Imperial College London, where she worked on Dynamic Kinetic Resolution under Professor Alan Spivey for my Final Year Project. She subsequently spent a year constructing amphiphilic films in the Institute of Materials Research Engineering (IMRE) in A*STAR, Singapore. Outside of Chemistry, Qian Wen enjoys traveling and exploring new places, listening to music, reading and running.
Originally from the Black Country, Reece studied Chemistry at the University of Liverpool, completing his MChem project under the guidance of Dr Christophe Aïssa investigating the reactivity of 3,4-pyridynes. During his studies, Reece also spent a year at GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage, working in the Allergic Inflammation DPU. During his DPhil at Oxford Reece hopes to learn more about synthetic chemistry, and how it can be harnessed for a variety of medical purposes. Aside from chemistry he enjoys a wide range of sports, and devotes as much time as possible (and most of his money) to attending gigs and music festivals.
Richard is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2016. Originally from the Causeway Coast of Northern Ireland, Richard studied for his MSci degree in Chemistry at the Queen's University of Belfast. Under the supervision of Dr. Matthew Cook, Richard's final year project was concerned with the construction of spiroketal synthons using asymmetric organocatalysis. Richard has also completed an NSERC funded summer project at the University of Alberta, investigating the role of a modified lysine residue in cerexin lipopeptides. After graduating, he then travelled to Hong Kong for an IAESTE internship, where he designed glycoconjugates of Chinese medicinal products. Whilst at Oxford, Richard hopes to discover how synthetic chemistry can be used to control biological processes involved in the onset of disease. Richard's spare time is largely spent playing volleyball, watching cult movies and eating pizza!
Ritrashree is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Fund Scholarship. Originally from Kolkata, India, she obtained a BSc Honours degree from the University of Calcutta and a MSc degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur. Her Master's thesis project under supervision of Prof. Dipakranjan Mal was focussed on synthetic studies of carbazole-1,4-quinones. Ritashree's research interests lie in the development of new synthetic methods and total synthesis of biologically active and structurally complex natural products. Apart from learning new chemistry, she enjoys listening to music and loves to dance.
Originally from Enfield, North London, Rob graduated with an MChem in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry from the University of Edinburgh in 2016. During his undergraduate, he was lucky enough to spend a year in France under the supervision of Dr Nicolas Blanchard of the University of Strasbourg, working on new methods for the synthesis of pharmacologically relevant pyridine derivatives. For his final year project, he was able to further his experience of synthetic organic chemistry as part of the group of Prof Guy Lloyd-Jones, researching the use of gold-catalysed C-H arylation as a means of modifying BINOL phosphoric acids. His main interests lie in investigating the chemistry of living systems, particularly with regards to the pathology and treatment of diseases. Outside of chemistry, Rob is a keen sportsman (concentrating mainly on rugby), tries his hand at the guitar, and enjoys cooking, although his friends tell him he should stick to rugby.
Robert is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2015. He is originally from Barnet, North London and studied Natural Sciences at Pembroke College, Cambridge. Robert's previous research experience has been largely focused on developing new catalytic methods, but in future he hopes to also engage in biological and total synthesis projects. Robert worked with Dr. Chris Cordier at Imperial College London developing a copper-catalysed Diels-Alder reaction. Whilst at Caltech, he worked on very promising nickel-catalysed reductive cross-coupling reactions with Prof. Sarah Reisman. During his MSci at Cambridge, Robert's part III project was with Prof. David Spring developing enantioselective phosphine catalysts for the production of anti-breast cancer scaffolds. When not in the lab, he enjoys dealing in antiques, reading early printed books and the quizzing circuit.
Roman was born and grew up in a small town in the west part of Slovakia called Prievidza. He obtained his Master's degree from Masaryk University (CZ) under the supervision of Dr Jakub Svenda conducting research dedicated to the total synthesis of biologically active natural products. During his Master's study, Roman spent one semester as an Erasmus student in Prof. Oliver Reiser's lab at the University of Regensburg (DE) developing a novel synthesis of Paeonilide. He also conducted a 6-month internship in the research group of Prof. Seth Herzon at Yale University developing new Pleuromutilin based antibiotics. Roman's academic interests lie in the synthesis of natural products with a medicinal application. In his spare time, Roman is a keen climber and likes hiking, cycling and Arduino programming.
Originally from Tyrone, Northern Ireland, Ryan has completed his MSci degree in Medicinal Chemistry at Queen's University Belfast. In his final year in the Knipe group, Ryan worked on the catalytic asymmetric synthesis of spirocyclic oxindoles. In the year preceding his final year, he also undertook a one-year industrial placement at GlaxoSmithKline synthesising compounds for the potential treatment of respiratory diseases. His current interests lie in the development of asymmetric methodology and novel therapeutics/biological probes, and aside from chemistry he enjoys many outdoor activities.
Sam is originally from Portsmouth, and studied Chemistry at Balliol College, Oxford. His Part II project, supervised by Dr Jeremy Robertson, was based on developing a core model synthesis of a family of natural products, for which he was awarded a thesis prize. His research interests include the application of synthetic techniques and methodology to obtain useful target molecules. He loves food, and away from the lab can often be found in a kitchen in front of a chopping board!
Sam is from Leeds in the beautiful county of Yorkshire. He studied his MSci in Natural Sciences at Selwyn College, University of Cambridge, specialising in Chemistry for the third and fourth years. In the fourth year, he completed a masters project under the supervision of Prof. Jonathan Nitschke on the development of organic ligands for metal-organic cages containing silver(I). Sam is most interested in the synthesis of structurally complex molecules, and in the application of new methodologies in total synthesis problems. He is also very passionate about teaching science and maths, volunteering on several tutoring and outreach programs that work with young people who want to study science at university. Being from Yorkshire, Sam enjoys spending time in the countryside and going on long walks - as well as playing the piano, clarinet and a bit of badminton.
Sarah is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2014. Sarah graduated from Jesus College, Oxford and is originally from a village near Stamford in Lincolnshire. Sarah spent an enjoyable Part II year in the Willis group, exploiting rhodium catalysed hydroacylation in the synthesis of quinoline molecules and so she is looking forward to returning to the CRL as a PhD student at University College. Sarah has also been lucky to spend two months working for GlaxoSmithKline in Stevenage in the Protein Degradation Laboratory. Outside of chemistry Sarah loves fell walking and also hopes to do some more rowing over the next four years. Unfortunately all exercise is eclipsed by her love of baking...
Originally from a village in North Lincolnshire, Sean completed his MSci degree at Trinity College, Cambridge. Sean's final year project was under the supervision of Professor Matthew Gaunt, investigating new motifs for directed, catalytic C-H activation. In coming to the CDT at Oxford, Sean hopes to further his interests in organic synthesis, particularly concerning natural products. Outside of chemistry, he enjoys badminton and playing classical guitar, but can often be found walking or cycling in the countryside.
Stanley is the recipient of an MPLS Academic Futures scholarship. Before joining the SBM CDT, he received the 2019 Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship from Liberia to study Advanced Pharmaco-Science under the direct supervision of Prof. Shuji Akai at Osaka University, Japan. He conducted his MPharm project in the field of chemo-biocatalysis, focusing on lipase-oxovanadium co-catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution of dual stereogenic secondary allylic alcohols. Stanley is interested in the design and application of synthetic methodologies in response to the growing demand for structurally diverse bioactive molecules. Outside of the laboratory, he enjoys reading and writing short stories and poems; in 2021, he self-published "Selenium", a collection of poems, on Amazon.
Steve is the recipient of the Oxford-Radcliffe SBM CDT Scholarship 2020. Originally from Peterborough, he completed a four year MChem with first class honours from the University of Bath. During his third year, Steve conducted a Medicinal Chemistry placement at AstraZeneca, working on novel cancer therapies. He returned to Bath to undertake his MChem project under the supervision of Dr. Simon Lewis, investigating the effects of pentafluorosulfanyl groups on the properties of azulene. After graduating, Steve spent two years working at Charles River Laboratories as a Medicinal Chemist, focusing on the synthesis and development of novel Huntingdon's disease candidates. He has a broad interest in organic synthesis, especially in the total synthesis of natural products and the discovery of novel methodologies. Outside the lab, Steve enjoys going to church, drinking beer and hanging out with friends.
Steve is the recipient of the Oxford-R E Jones Graduate Scholarship. Steve is originally from a little town just north of Liverpool, and completed his undergraduate degree in Oxford. Under the astute supervision of Dr Ed Anderson, his temperamental Part II project explored the construction of various electron-rich alkynes from simple precursors. Accordingly, Steve is particularly interested in making strange and funky molecules, and exploring their utility in synthesis. When not battling with and being outsmarted by chemistry, Steve enjoys playing badminton and pool, and training karate. He also enjoys pizza and good movies.
Stuart is from Carlisle in Cumbria and completed his MChem degree at Worcester College, University of Oxford. During his Part II project under the supervision of Prof Jeremy Robertson, he worked on the synthesis of chiral thiols and the investigation of their uses as chiral auxiliaries for thioester Diels-Alder reactions. Stuart is interested in the development of new synthetic methods and their application towards natural product synthesis. Outside the lab, he enjoys playing football, running and being out in the mountains climbing or hiking.
Originally from Suffolk, Suzie recently graduated with a First Class Honours MChem degree in Chemistry from the University of St Andrews. As part of her degree, Suzie spent 12 months working as a synthetic chemist at GSK Montrose focusing on a variety of process improvement initiatives. For her final year project, Suzie worked under the supervision of Prof. Allan Watson investigating C-H activation using cyanoboron reagents to synthesise aryl nitriles. Suzie then undertook a summer project, again under the supervision of Prof. Allan Watson, focusing on the optimisation of a copper-catalysed iodination mechanism. Outside of the lab, Suzie enjoys sailing and being by the sea.
Originally from the south of Germany, Sven obtained his Master of Science in Life Science from the University of Konstanz. During his studies, Sven conducted a 3-month internship at the King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi in Bangkok, Thailand, in the field of medicinal chemistry. For his master's project, Sven spent 6 months in Prof. Gunda I. Georg's laboratory at the University of Minnesota, USA, researching novel bromodomain inhibitors for male contraception. His academic interests are organic synthesis, drug design/development and medicinal chemistry. Sven is planning on working in the pharmaceutical industry after his DPhil. When not working, Sven likes to go swimming or running.
Tanya is originally from Moscow, Russia, but grew up in Toronto, Canada. She obtained her BSc degree in Chemistry and History at the University of Toronto, where she worked on developing novel boron-containing biologically active small molecules under the direction of Prof. Andrei Yudin. She also completed a DAAD RISE internship during her studies at the University of Ulm, Germany, in Prof. Max von Delius group, where she researched new synthetic routes towards new covalent organic framework (COF) materials. She is interested in total synthesis of bioactive natural products and in the design and modification of enzyme inhibitors. Outside of the lab, Tanya loves to travel, scuba dive, read Soviet science fiction and go on hikes in the local wilderness.
Thomas is the recipient of a CASE Conversion award with UCB. Originally from Kent, Tom graduated with a First Class Honours MSci degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge. In his final year, he completed his Master's project under the supervision of Dr Ben Pilgrim in The Nitschke Group, researching the application of "click" chemistry in the synthesis of supramolecular architectures, and was awarded the Emeleus Prize for Distinction in Inorganic Chemistry. Last summer, Tom completed a ten-week internship at AstraZeneca, investigating visible light mediated [2+2] cycloadditions and their scale-up using continuous flow technology. Outside the lab, Tom enjoys playing cricket, practicing the violin and spending time with friends and family.
Thomas is the recipient of a Pirie-Reid Scholarship. Thomas obtained his MSci degree from the University of Glasgow, in the city of his birth, completing his Masters research on an organic synthesis project in the group of Dr. Joelle Prunet. He also undertook a 12 month work placement at Roche Basel, developing small molecules for a CNS indication. His research interests lie in the development of new synthetic methods and their application to the synthesis of medicinally relevant compounds, and he plans to continue to pursue these later on either in academia or the pharmaceutical industry. Outside of the lab, his interests include music, reading, football and tennis.
Tom is from south-east London and completed his undergraduate degree at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. In his Part II year Tom was supervised by Professor Stephen Faulkner and worked on using a novel synthetic route to synthesise multi-lanthanide complexes to be used as ratiometric oxygen probes in optical imaging. Tom is looking forward to learning a wide array of organic chemistry throughout his DPhil with a particular focus on how it can be applied for medicinal purposes. Beyond his interest in chemistry, Tom enjoys baking cakes (of the gluten free variety), Formula 1, pub quizzes and gigs.
Tom is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Born in Swansea, Tom completed his MChem in Chemistry at the University of York. For his Master's year project, Tom worked on C2-arylation of tryptophan and derivatives mediated by Palladium. Tom was awarded the Whinfield Medal for the best overall performance by an MChem student on completion of his course.
Originally from south-west London, Tim graduated from the University of Cambridge with First Class BA and MSci degrees in Natural Sciences, specialising in chemistry. During his master's year, he worked under the supervision of Dr. Manuel Nappi and Prof. Matthew Gaunt, developing a novel photochemical method for activating alcohols using the chemistry of charge-transfer systems. Tim's research interests centre on the discovery of new synthetic methods and their application to the construction of medicinally-relevant compounds. Outside of the lab, Tim is a keen musician, performing as a saxophonist in a variety of jazz and function band settings.
Tom obtained his Master of Chemistry with First Class Honours degree from the University of Southampton. His Bachelor's dissertation, under the supervision of Professor Tom Brown, involved streamlining the existing protocol for modifying synthetic DNA. Tom conducted six months of research at the Technisches Universität München in Germany, completing his Masters dissertation on the design and synthesis of novel proteasome inhibitors against cancer and autoimmune disorders. Tom is focussed on the understanding, control and manipulation of living processes, in health and disease, through the appliance of synthetic organic chemistry. He is also interested in biotechnology, business and innovations in healthcare. When the goggles are off, Tom conducts culinary experiments and searches for unspoilt pubs on his bicycle.
Tom completed an MSci in Chemistry (International Programme) at University College London. In 2015 he attended a Summer School at the University of Leiden on Energy and Sustainability in Chemistry. Following this, Tom spent his 3rd year at the University of Toronto working with Prof Robert Batey on synthesis of allyic carbamates. On his return to the UK he was a recipient of an EPSRC research bursary to undertake summer research with Dr Tom Sheppard at UCL. This summer project led into his MSci project, in which a range of noble metals and copper were used to directly arylate azulene and other derivatives. Tom was the runner up at the SCI Undergraduate Organic Symposium in June 2017. For even more fun he continued working on the project over the summer of 2017 up until the day before his graduation! When not obsessing over Chemistry Tom likes to spend his time reading about or discussing international affairs and global relations with a focus on US and Middle Eastern politics. Alongside a passion for making and drinking cocktails he also enjoys playing badminton.
Valentin is the recipient of the Oxford-RE Jones Scholarship 2023. Originally from Sofia, Bulgaria, Valentin completed his MChem degree at Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford. He joined Prof. Ed Anderson's group for a summer internship and for his Part II year where he researched novel bioisosteres and their functionalisation. His research interests lie in novel methodologies and their use in medicinal chemistry. Outside the lab Valentin enjoys swimming, running, and cooking new vegan recipes (with various degrees of success).
Wilf is a tall, loud, beardy man from Newcastle (although it doesn't sound like he is). Following his first degree here in Oxford, including a Part II with Prof. Harry Anderson, he decided that playing with chemistry at other people's expense is quite a lot of fun. He is particularly interested in harnessing existing chemistry to make new materials, whether biologically active or not. The current plan is to go into industry and continue as a synthetic chemist at the end of his D.Phil. When not working, Wilf likes to ring church bells, drink real ale and build model railways. He is rather less keen to go clubbing or to play sports.
Xinlan is the recipient of a University of Oxford's Clarendon Scholarship. Born and raised in Singapore, Xinlan recently graduated with a First Class Honours MChem degree from the University of York. She completed her Master's thesis during a yearlong placement at F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Switzerland, synthesising novel molecules for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and received the EFMC-Roche Studentship award. Her research interests include total synthesis and she is particularly interested in novel synthetic technologies for application towards biologically important molecules. Outside of the lab she enjoys travelling, art, watching films and lots of outdoor sports.
Yining is the recipient of a St John's RCUK Scholarship. Originally from Singapore, Yining completed a first class MChem at the University of Oxford in 2017. During her final year, Yining did a 4-month internship at Hoffmann-La Roche at Basel, Switzerland. Her academic interests include the applications of organic chemistry in clinical and biological chemistry. Outside of the lab, Yining enjoys playing bridge and has represented the University of Oxford at various competitions.
Zac grew up in County Down, Northern Ireland, and graduated in 2017 with an MSci degree in Chemistry from Queen's University Belfast. For his final year project, Zac worked under the supervision of Dr. Peter C. Knipe to develop foldamer analogues of protein tertiary structures. During his degree, Zac completed a twelve-month placement at AstraZeneca, Macclesfield, where he worked as part of a process chemistry team on a range of drug development projects. Zac enjoys most aspects of organic chemistry, but is particularly interested in catalysis, supramolecular chemistry and chemical biology. Outside the lab, Zac likes to play the drums, catch up on the latest TV series, and travel whenever he gets the chance.
Zhong Hui is the recipient of the Oxford-Richards Graduate Scholarship 2019. Hailing from Singapore, Zhong Hui completed his MChem degree in Merton College, Oxford in 2019. In his master's project, he worked in Prof. Ed Anderson's group, investigating Rh-catalysed atropselective cycloisomerisations. During the summers of his degree, Zhong Hui had the opportunity to work under Prof. Angela Russell (Oxford) and Prof. Max von Delius (Ulm University). While his current interests lie in synthetic chemistry and their applications in various fields of science, he hopes to pick up computational modelling. Outside the lab, Zhong Hui enjoys powerlifting, trekking, music and napping.
Zonghua is the recipient of a China Scholarship Council-University of Oxford joint scholarship. Originally from China, Zonghua completed a first class MChem degree at Wadham College, University of Oxford. During her final year, Zonghua worked in Prof Hagan Bayley's group investigating chemical reactions in droplet networks. Her academic interests lie in chemical biology. In her spare time, Zonghua enjoys cooking, writing, swimming and watching crime TV shows. She runs a blog discussing her experience as an international student in the UK and recommendations for restaurant reviews with more than 2000 subscribers.