About Dr Matt Smith
After graduating with an MChem (Hons) in Chemistry from the University of Liverpool, I stayed on to complete a PhD in Chemistry. My thesis centred on the development of novel small molecule inhibitors of the enzyme AMACR, which is overexpressed in cancers such as prostate cancer and lung cancer.
I then moved to Newcastle to work for Glythera (now Iksuda Therapeutics) on the development of their antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technologies. Following this, I completed a PGCE (with Qualified Teacher Status) and worked for Newcastle College (part of NCG) as a lecturer and programme leader for both FE and HE courses.
I joined the University of Sunderland in 2022 as a Lecturer in Biochemistry, before being promoted to Senior Lecturer in Pharmaceutical Science in December 2025.
My current research interests focus on the development, synthesis, and biological evaluation of bio-oligomers (such as peptides), drug-conjugates, and classical small molecule drugs for applications as potential therapeutic agents.
Teaching and supervision
I currently teach chemistry and biochemistry on a range of modules across the following courses:
I am also the Programme Leader for the BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science with Integrated Foundation Year.
I am the module leader for the following modules in 2026/27:
- BPS1000: Introductory Molecular And Cellular Biology
- BPS200: Further Molecular and Cellular Biology
- BPS312: Advanced Biotechnology And Biochemistry
Interests
My research interests are in the area of chemical biology, using chemistry to solve biological problems. If you are interested in any of these areas, please get in touch to discuss further:
- Biotherapeutics
- Drug-conjugates
- Medicinal chemistry
- Biocatalysis
Research
My research interests focus on utilizing chemical biology tools to address critical challenges in mental health treatments, specifically aimed at improving therapeutic options for depression, anxiety, stress, and suicidal ideation.
A primary focus of this work is to resolve the clinical limitations of traditional Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), such as prolonged titration windows and initial patient destabilisation.
To achieve this, my current research integrates biocatalytic synthesis with advanced drug-conjugate delivery systems. We leverage enzymatic precision to develop novel therapeutic candidates, combined with targeted delivery vehicles designed to optimize bioavailability directly within the central nervous system.
By bypassing systemic exposure and optimizing receptor interactions, this dual approach aims to engineer faster-acting, safer interventions that mitigate the severe side effects and stabilization delays historically experienced by patients.
Further information
Memberships and Affiliations:
- Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC)
- Member of the American Chemical Society
- Pharmaceutical Scientist Member of the Royal College of Pharmacy (SRCPharm)
Qualifications:
- MChem (Hons) Chemistry (University of Liverpool)
- PhD Chemistry (University of Liverpool)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) (University of Sunderland)
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Other roles:
- RSC Grants Review Group - Reviewer
- Journal Reviewer – LAM, JAM