Our research goal is to develop a Fragment-Based Design (FBD) approach that is rapid and robust. The four research themes work in concert to optimise our REFiL (Rapid Elaboration of Fragments into Leads) workflow so that it can be applied to any target to identify fragment hits and elaborate into leads efficiently.
Fragment Library Design
Developing libraries of chemical fragments with chemical and structural diversity and potentially uncover new and valuable bioactive molecules.
Fragment Screening
Optimising biophysical screening methods and fragment hit ranking strategies to identify compounds that bind to a target protein & accelerate lead development.
Protein Expression & Sample Preparation
Developing novel approaches to sample preparation and screening to enable FBD for larger, more complex and membrane-bound proteins.
Fragment Elaboration
Developing and optimising systemic approaches to selecting suitable fragments for development and enhancement into potent leads.
ARC Centre for Fragment-Based Design 