Pharmacy PhD

Newcastle University

Our Pharmacy MPhil and PhD programmes specialise in both laboratory-based and clinical research areas of Pharmacy. We accept both funded and self-funded students.We offer MPhil and PhD supervision in the following research areas:Disease-Selective MedicinesThe topic examines the discovery and development of new small molecule therapeutics. This considers improved disease selectivity and reduced systemic toxicities, through the use of:rational drug design and synthesislead optimisationpreclinical evaluation in cellular disease model systems.We explore developments of cancer prodrugs with tumour-specific activation and reduced systemic toxicity. We explore novel therapies for improved treatment of infective diseases including:dengueother haemorrhagic fever virusestuberculosisImproved Strategies for the Treatment of Chronic PainWe explore the molecular mechanisms that generate the symptoms of chronic pain. We look at its translation to strategies for pain control, including opioid treatment.Cellular PhysiologyInvestigating hormones to control epithelial ion channel activity and physiological action. We look at the control of sodium channel activity in the distal nephron and consequent hypo and hyper-tension.Safety Pharmacology and Discovery ToxicologyDevelopment of new preclinical tools for identification of therapeutics with potential safety liabilities. We look at relevant cell models and systems for the detection of effects on the heart.Pharmaceutics and Chemical Principles of Dosage Form DesignPharmaceutical formulations to deliver active molecules to treat disease. We have active research on:intermolecular interactionsnanoscale pharmaceutics and nanotherapeutics, including dosage form design from intermolecular interactions,delivery of biopharmaceuticals.In particular research focuses on:determining strategies for improving drug solubilityaltering materials properties to enable drug delivery and the production of enhanced medicinessupramolecular Pharmaceutics. In particular, inter/intramolecular interactions and kineticsfundamental and translational nanomedicinesunderstanding and improving drug delivery via the subcutaneous, inhaled and intravitreal routesPharmaceutical Public HealthThe role of community pharmacies as a central fulcrum to address health inequalities and behaviour change in relation to:smokingalcoholsubstance misusesexual healthobesogenic behavioursCommunity pharmacies are the point of contact for patients in the wider primary healthcare team. We test the interactions of this relationship and potential role for pharmacies in the diagnosis of disease. We also explore improvements in public health from this relationship.Rational Medicines UseThe safe and efficient use of medicines in primary and secondary care is central to the role of every pharmacist. Medicines are becoming complex and patients are being given more preventative medicine focused at improving their health. This can pose clear risks and significant potential for complications. Rationalisation of medicine usage:crosses care boundariesapplies both within primary and secondary careWe investigate prescribing habits and the mechanisms to support patients who take complex medicines for long periods.Patient Safety and Health Information TechnologyMedication errors can result in patient injury or death, and are preventable. These errors can occur at the stages of ordering, transcription, dispensing and administration. We conduct studies around key technological advances targeted towards intercepting these errors and improving patient safety.

Newcastle University