Dr Gareth Hall

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Structure-based drug discovery, design and development (SBD3) is a major translational research focus by my group, with successful, strategic research partnerships built with the research charity LifeArc. Through this close collaborations, my group aims to make a major contribution to the discovery, design and development of important new therapeutics, utilising structural biology (cryoEM, NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography) to determine and characterise small molecule and antibody complex structures of proteins involved in key biological processes of significant medical importance. This research has made major contributions to translational programmes. For example, we have worked on ‘theranostic’ antibodies for both the diagnosis and treatment of HER2+ breast cancer and NSCLC, which are currently in Stage 2 clinical trials. Furthermore, my research includes the pioneering use of innovative new approaches to drug discovery, such as antibody-assisted structure-based drug discovery, which aims to identify and characterise novel regulatory or allosteric sites on target proteins, through the use of single chain antibodies, as well as the stabilisation of rare, functionally important conformational states of target proteins.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: My supervision style is characterised by an outcome-oriented approach, situated within a supportive and goal-driven framework that actively promotes collaboration.

Provision of Training

My strategy for training PhD students centres on equipping them with the methodological expertise, critical thinking skills, and research independence required to excel in their field. I aim to provide structured guidance and mentorship within a supportive environment, while progressively encouraging autonomy.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to actively engage with all research members on a regular basis, both in group meetings and on a 1-1 basis, and adopt an open door policy, supporting them with their ideas and actively help them to develop realistic and specific goals, agreed by all parties, and within defined time lines.

Communication

I encourage open communication and welcome discussions about any challenges that may affect your ability to reach your potential or meet the expectations of the lab. My aim is to address concerns constructively and support both individual growth and collective progress.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per week. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Work Patterns

Certain tasks in my lab need to occur at set times, and students need to be able to commit to a rota/timetable shared with other members of the team.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 2 weeks' notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5,000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Primary supervisor for:

Project Title

See the PhD Opportunities section to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.

Please Note: The main page lists projects via BBSRC Research Theme(s) quoted and then relevant Topic(s).

Project Title

Secondary Supervisor(s):

University of Registration:

BBSRC Research Themes:

Sustainable Agriculture and Food (Animal Health and Welfare, Microbial Food Safety, Plant and Crop Science)
Renewable Resources and Clean Growth (Bio-energy, Industrial Biotechnology)
Understanding the Rules of Life (Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Plant Science, Soil Science, Stem Cells, Structural Biology, Systems Biology)
Integrated Understanding of Health (Ageing, Diet and Health, Pharmaceuticals, Regenerative Biology)

Project Outline

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Co-supervisor on a project / projects with supervisor name + link.