This research project will study repurposing as an innovation strategy within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Repurposing is commonly understood as the application of a known solution to a different context. Within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries repurposing often means that an existing medication is used to treat a disease that is different than the one the medication was originally approved for. Many commercially successful drugs have been repurposed from products that were originally developed for other purposes. The development of Sildenafil, better known as Viagra, is a prime example as the drug was initially developed to treat angina pectoris (chest pain) and was repurposed due to its unexpected side effects.
While there are examples like this, there are still open questions regarding whether and when repurposing is a successful innovation strategy and what the performance implications of repurposing may be. At the same time, collaborative research as well as advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies may provide new opportunities for repurposing through facilitating the identification of promising repurposing candidates. These advances may influence the viability of repurposing as an innovation strategy and may influence the performance of repurposed medications.
Against this background, the successful applicant will conduct research within the following broad research theme:
Repurposing as innovation strategy the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
We are seeking to add to this team with a funded PhD studentship. The scholarship will entail a fixed maintenance award of €18,500 per annum and full annual tuition fees support for four years of study (at EU fees level). The expectation is that the majority of PhD project work will be completed in three years, with the fourth year dedicated to write-up of the thesis and socialisation of research.
Further information can be found here - PhD Scholarship - Repurposing as innovation strategy in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries