Proteins are nature’s machines, performing essential tasks with incredible precision. Yet when used as medicines, they quickly lose activity in the body due to instability and rapid breakdown. A powerful solution is to create protein–polymer conjugates—hybrid materials where synthetic polymers are grown directly from proteins using a “grafting from” approach. This clever strategy avoids many of the limitations of traditional methods and produces highly stable, functional biomaterials.
In this project, we will design sustainable protein–polymer conjugates using bio-derived polymers. Our focus is on using natural molecules as monomer to form polymers which are both biodegradable and responsive to different chemical signal abundant in diseased cells. This means the conjugates can remain stable during circulation but release their cargo exactly where needed, reducing unwanted side effects.
To achieve this, we will use light-mediated RAFT polymerization, an advanced technique that allows us to build polymers with unmatched precision under mild, biocompatible conditions. Light control enables us to fine-tune polymer growth and create smart nanostructures that respond to their environment.
Students will gain hands-on experience in polymer synthesis, protein conjugation, and nanoscale material characterization, contributing to the development of next-generation bioactive materials for advanced therapeutics and regenerative medicine.
School
Chemical Engineering
Research Area
Photo polymerization | Biomaterials
Suitable for recognition of Work Integrated Learning (industrial training)?
Yes
- Research environment
- Expected outcomes
- Supervisory team
- Reference material/links
The student will be based in the School of Chemical Engineering, working under Prof. Cyrille Boyer and Dr. Vinod Kumar Kannaujiya at CAMD, a leading centre for advanced polymer research. With access to cutting-edge facilities and expert guidance, the student will gain hands-on experience in polymer synthesis, biomaterials, characterization, and applications within a vibrant, multidisciplinary environment.
This project is expected to deliver a new class of biocompatible, responsive protein–polymer conjugates derived from natural building blocks. Students will gain valuable experience working within a collaborative research group, while developing transferable skills in critical thinking, experimental design, and scientific presentation. Practical training will include polymer synthesis, advanced characterization techniques, and bio-conjugation strategies, providing strong preparation for careers in both academia and industry. The project is expected to generate publishable results, offering students the opportunity to be listed as a co-author on a peer-reviewed journal article.
