PhD Studentship - Structure-function analysis of GTGs – novel membrane proteins required for growth and development : Southampton, United Kingdom

Applications are invited for a 3 year fully funded PhD studentship commencing Autumn 2013.

The project, titled “Structure-function analysis of GTGs – novel membrane proteins required for growth and development”, is a multi-disciplined approach aimed at revealing the molecular details of a GPCR-Type GTPase protein that may have anion channel activity.

Presently, we are at the beginning of an explosion of knowledge regarding integral membrane proteins due to the development of techniques and approaches that have greatly increased the output of membrane protein studies. Many of these membrane proteins are critical cellular gateways that control the physiology and development of individual cells and whole organisms. The novel family of GTGs, present in all eukaryotes, are an example of one such class of proteins. The candidate will learn all of the membrane protein 3-dimensional X-ray crystallographic techniques and apply these to the GTGs. These, in combination with molecular biological and biophysical approaches, will be used to reveal the molecular features of the target protein. However, equally as importantly, this approach will provide the candidate with a broad and valuable skills set that can be applied across any biological research interest.

Eligibility: Applicants should hold a minimum of a UK Honours Degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in a relevant subject.

This studentship is fully funded; covering University tuition fees and providing a tax-free bursary of £13,590 per year, rising annually in line with the UK Government (Research Councils UK).  Please note that, due to restrictions on the funding, this studentship is for UK/EU applicants only.

The student must hold, or expect to obtain, an upper second or first class degree in a relevant subject. (www.bbsrc.ac.uk).

Administrative contact and how to apply:
Please complete the University’s online application form, which you can find at:
https://studentrecords.soton.ac.uk/BNNRPROD/bzsksrch.P_Search

You should enter Dr Doyle as your proposed supervisor. Please direct any enquiries about this procedure to pgafnes@soton.ac.uk

Closing Date: Saturday 31 August 2013