At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on membrane transport proteins using advanced X-ray techniques.
- Company: Imperial College London and Diamond Light Source, leaders in structural biology.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, collaborate internationally, and enhance your research skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for international collaboration and professional development in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering project and contribute to significant scientific advancements.
- Qualifications: Masters degree in Biochemistry or related field required.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a 3‑year PhD position at Imperial College London which will be based in The Membrane Protein Laboratory (MPL) at Diamond Light Source, Didcot, Oxfordshire and the Centre for Structural Biology, Imperial College London. The successful applicant will work on structural studies of membrane transport proteins using microfocus X-rays and X‑ray Free Electron Laser beams. The project “NanoMem” is supported by the Marie Curie Initial Training Network (European Commission Framework Seven Programme).
The MPL operates both as a facility for users and as a cutting‑edge research laboratory. It is a high‑throughput protein crystallisation facility that aims to enhance the rate of success in the crystallisation of medically significant membrane proteins. Its location at Diamond Light Source facilitates high‑throughput crystal screening and high‑quality data collection.
The student will be co‑supervised by Prof. So Iwata, Dr. Isabel Moraes and Prof. Xiaodong Zhang at Imperial College. The student will be trained in state‑of‑the‑art methods of membrane protein expression, purification, crystallisation and structure determination using both synchrotron microfocus X‑ray beamlines and X‑ray free electron lasers.
The successful candidate, as a member of the Marie Curie Initial Training Network, will participate in collaborative experiments, secondments and training events across the network (The NanoMem network comprises ten laboratories from five European countries).
Studentship DetailsApplicants should hold a Masters degree in Biochemistry or a related subject.
To apply: applications should include a cover letter describing relevant research experience to date, a CV, and the names and addresses of two referees. These should be sent to Dr. Isabel Moraes (i.moraes@imperial.ac.uk) by email by 31 May 2013. This studentship is only available to applicants who are not UK citizens or have not lived in the UK for more than 12 months during the last three years. For informal enquiries please contact Dr. Isabel Moraes (i.moraes@imperial.ac.uk).
PhD in Membrane Protein Structure & Crystallography employer: Instruct-ERIC
Imperial College London offers an exceptional environment for aspiring researchers in the field of Structural Biology, particularly through its PhD position at the Membrane Protein Laboratory. Located at the prestigious Diamond Light Source in Didcot, Oxfordshire, the institution fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, providing access to cutting-edge facilities and training opportunities that enhance professional growth. With a focus on impactful research and international collaboration, this role presents a unique chance to contribute to significant advancements in membrane protein studies while being part of a supportive academic community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD in Membrane Protein Structure & Crystallography
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former PhD students in the field, especially those at Imperial College London. They can give you insider info and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss your research experience and how it relates to membrane proteins. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaborative spirit! Highlight any teamwork experiences in your discussions. The NanoMem network thrives on collaboration, so let them know you’re all about working together.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD in Membrane Protein Structure & Crystallography
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant research experience and how it aligns with the project. We want to see your passion for membrane proteins and crystallography, so let that enthusiasm come through!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the PhD position. We’re looking for specific examples of your work in biochemistry or related fields, so make those stand out.
Get Your Referees Ready:Choose referees who know your work well and can vouch for your abilities. It’s a good idea to give them a heads-up about the application and what you’d like them to highlight. We want to hear glowing recommendations!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application via our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter. Don’t miss the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at Instruct-ERIC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of membrane proteins and crystallography. Familiarise yourself with the latest research in the field, especially any relevant studies from the Membrane Protein Laboratory. This will show your passion and commitment to the subject.
✨Tailor Your Application
When preparing your cover letter and CV, highlight your specific research experiences that align with the NanoMem project. Mention any relevant techniques you've used, like X-ray crystallography or protein purification, to demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the project and the team. This could be about the collaborative aspects of the Marie Curie Initial Training Network or the specific methodologies used at Diamond Light Source. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your research and experiences. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as this will help you stand out during the actual interview.
