Quantum and drugs: spin dynamics in an antibiotic
Spin physics, the science that describes how electron spin may be coupled through ‘spooky action at a distance’ or quantum entanglement.
Start date
1 October 2020Duration
3 yearsApplication deadline
Funding source
Leverhulme Trust and University of SurreyFunding information
The studentship fully covers all academic fees with a stipend of £15,285 per annum for UK/EU students
Funding for future years will be subjected to the UKRI increase
About
Spin physics, the science that describes how electron spin may be coupled through ‘spooky action at a distance’ or quantum entanglement. The Radical Pair Mechanism (RPM) in which two radicals are linked through the spin of quantum-entangled electrons, is believed to provide the avian compass but may also be involved in health-related phenomena, such as inflammation and wound healing. Yet progress is dogged by the difficulties of working with birds. Recent experiments have demonstrated that spin physics may be involved in the activation of some drugs. The discovery will enable biological spin physics to be studied with simple molecular biological approaches. The project could lead to new approaches to drug therapy and maybe even a new science of quantum pharmacology. The project will involve a mixture of molecular biology, microbiology and experimental physics. It will involve collaboration with the University of Exeter, the National Physics Laboratory and the University of California, USA.
Related links
Professor Johnjoe McFadden Dr Scott Turner Leverhulme Quantum Biology Doctoral training centreEligibility criteria
Applicants must have a BSc/Masters in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biophysics or similar expertise.
UK and EU students only will be funded, overseas students will need to source their own funding.
English language requirements: IELTS overall score of 6.5 or above with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
How to apply
To apply for this studentship:
- Firstly apply for the Quantum Biology PhD.
- During your application, please mention your desire to apply to this studentship in order to be considered.
- When the system asks you to add your ‘Research Project’ please copy and paste the project description of the project you wish to apply for.
Application deadline
Contact details

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