Accepting PhD Students

PhD projects

Project Tittle:
Design, Synthesis, and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Triphenylphosphonium-Functionalized Azole Scaffolds

Description of the project:
Do you have a strong interest in medicinal chemistry and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR)? Become a member of our research team focused on creating a novel category of antimicrobial agents aimed at tackling resistance mechanisms.

This PhD project emphasizes the creation, synthesis, and biological assessment of metal–azole complexes incorporating triphenylphosphonium-modified imidazole frameworks. These innovative compounds are designed to merge the metal-binding ability of azoles with the cell membrane-targeting characteristics of triphenylphosphonium groups, intending to improve cellular absorption and antimicrobial effectiveness.

This research aims to develop effective lead compounds against resistant bacterial strains by combining biorganometallic chemistry with focused drug design. The initiative provides practical experience in synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry, coordination chemistry, and in vitro biological tests.
Key Highlights:
• Develop novel triphenylphosphonium functionalized metal–azole complexes with tailored antimicrobial properties
• Gain expertise in synthesis, structural characterization (NMR, MS, IR, XRD), and biological testing
We welcome applicants with a strong background in medicinal or inorganic chemistry, and an interest in tackling global health challenges through innovative molecular design.

Reference:
1. Chem. Sci., 2020, 11, 2627–2639
2. Chem. Eur. J. 2023, 29, e202203803


Eligibility:
Applications are invited from students with an appropriate background in Medicinal Chemistry/Chemistry/Pharmaceutical Science or related disciplines. Applicants should have an interest in synthetic and biological chemistry. The candidates must be highly motivated individuals with the ability to conduct high-quality independent research, possess strong organizational skills, good command of written and verbal communication skills (English), and is able to work well with others. Candidates should have received at least H1 or H2A in their first degree (4 years; equivalent to one year of Australian Honours) and/or MSc degree with significant research component. The position is available only to Malaysian graduate.
Admission Criteria http://www.monash.edu.au/migr/research-degrees/handbook/chapter-two/2-1.html
English Language Proficiency http://www.monash.edu.au/migr/research-degrees/handbook/chapter-two/2-2.html
Level Of Support:
A full studentship is available on a competitive basis. Full tuition fee waiver will be provided for successful applicant.
Closing Date:
Application is on a first come first serve basis. Once a suitable candidate is found, the application will be closed.
To Apply:
Only eligible candidate should write in application and resume directly to:
(Dr Cheow Yuen Lin)
Senior Lecturer,
School of Science,
Monash University Malaysia.
Email: [email protected]
Tel no.: +603-5514 4401
Fax no.: +603-55146364