We welcome enquiries from motivated students and researchers with a strong background in chemistry, medicinal chemistry, peptide chemistry, chemical biology, pharmaceutical sciences, molecular bioengineering or closely related molecular sciences.

The lab focuses on therapeutic peptides at biological barriers and interfaces, connecting molecular design, peptide modification and characterisation with drug delivery and biological evaluation in relevant barrier models.

Experience in peptide or organic synthesis, analytical chemistry, drug delivery, biomaterials, engineered in vitro models, imaging or quantitative biological assays would be particularly relevant. Candidates with primarily biological or biomedical backgrounds should clearly explain how their experience fits a chemistry-led peptide research programme.

We welcome enquiries from MPhil, MRes, MSci and MSc students whose interests align with the lab’s research areas. If you are interested in a research project, please contact Lucia with a brief description of your background, degree programme and research interests.

Funded PhD and Postdoctoral positions will be advertised here under “Current openings” and on the QUB website when available. 

Current openings

No current openings.

Funding can be secured from various external sources. If you are interested in joining our team as a Research Fellow or PhD student and are considering an external application, please contact Lucia with a single PDF including:

• a CV,
• a motivation letter outlining your research interests, relevant experience and why you would like to join the Lombardi Research Lab,
• the names and contact details of three referees.

Applicants should clearly explain how their background and proposed project fit the lab’s general research priorities in peptide science, biological barriers and therapeutic delivery.

Prospective Fellows

Opportunities (please check current openings)

Several funding schemes may be applicable and can be obtained from the following organizations:

• BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council)
• EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council)
• Wellcome Trust
• Leverhulme Trust
• Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851
• Royal Society
• AXA Fellowships
• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
• EMBO (European Molecular Biology Organization)
• HFSP (Human Frontier Science Program)
• Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)

Prospective applicants should contact Lucia only after identifying a relevant scheme and considering how their background and proposed project align with the lab’s research priorities.

Prospective Students

External PhD/MRes scholarships may be available, depending on your country of origin. Some potential funding opportunities include:

• Newton PhD Scholarships (international)
• Marshall Scholarship (USA)
• Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (international)
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (international)
• Fondazione Zegna (Italia)
• Mwalimu Nyerere African Union Scholarship Scheme (African female students)
• Fulbright Scholarships to the UK (USA)
• British Council GREAT Scholarship (India)
• Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme
• Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC, 国家留学基金委）
• Saïd Foundation (Middle East)
• QUB International Scholarships
• DAERA Postgraduate Studentship 

Prospective students should first explore the relevant funding options and then contact Lucia with a brief outline of their background, proposed research interests and potential fit with the lab.