Professor Zaid Alobaidi

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Professor Zaid Alobaidi

College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University

Scientific Background

Research Interests

My research focuses on the design and development of novel therapeutic agents through an integrated approach combining synthetic medicinal chemistry and computer-aided drug design (CADD). I have a particular interest in modulating aquaporins as well as protein–protein and protein–ligand interactions relevant to neurological disorders and oncology, using structure-based design, molecular dynamics, and pharmacophore modelling in combination with innovative synthetic strategies.

I also explore green and efficient synthetic methodologies, with emphasis on heterocyclic scaffolds, codrug design, and functionalised small molecules. My work bridges in silico design, bench synthesis, and experimental validation, aiming to deliver translational outcomes in drug discovery and precision medicine

Scientific Inspiration

My scientific inspiration is Professor Simona Francese, my master's supervisor. She has pioneered the application of mass spectrometry in forensic and biomedical sciences, transforming the impact of analytical chemistry on both healthcare and society. I admire her ability to combine methodological innovation with real-world translation, bridging fundamental science with practical solutions. Her work demonstrates how rigorous research can be both highly technical and deeply impactful, and it has inspired me to pursue similarly translational approaches in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery.

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Student-centred, goal-driven, teaching.

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to be kept up to date, and will expect to see evidence of method development/data generation results on a daily/weekly basis.

Communication

I am known to email my team/PhD students at all hours of the day and night; however, I will not expect you to do the same.

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

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings) I expect students to manage their own time.

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.