At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on membrane transport proteins using advanced X-ray techniques.
- Company: Imperial College London, a leading institution in scientific research.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, collaborate internationally, and access state-of-the-art facilities.
- Other info: Opportunity for international collaboration and professional development within the Marie Curie network.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and contribute to impactful research in structural biology.
- 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 position at Imperial College London employer: Instruct-ERIC
Imperial College London offers an exceptional environment for aspiring researchers in the field of Structural Biology, particularly with its state-of-the-art facilities at the Diamond Light Source in Didcot, Oxfordshire. The collaborative work culture fosters innovation and growth, providing PhD candidates with unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research while benefiting from extensive training and mentorship from leading experts. This position not only enhances your academic credentials but also connects you with a vibrant network of professionals across Europe, making it an ideal choice for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD position at Imperial College London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former PhD students at Imperial College London or in the MPL. They can give you insider info and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the research being done at the MPL. Show us that you’re not just interested in the position, but that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to their projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, shoot a thank-you email to your interviewers. It’s a great way to remind them of your enthusiasm and professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to use our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD position at Imperial College London
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 NanoMem project. Keep it engaging and personal, showing us why you're the perfect fit for this PhD position.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your skills and experiences that are most relevant to structural biology and membrane proteins. We want to see what makes you stand out, so make sure to include any specific projects or techniques you've worked with.
Get Your Referees Ready:Choose referees who know your work well and can vouch for your abilities in a research setting. Let them know you’re applying for this position so they can provide a tailored reference that highlights your strengths related to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. Make sure to double-check all your documents before hitting send, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Instruct-ERIC
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in structural biology and membrane transport proteins. Familiarise yourself with the NanoMem project and the work of your potential supervisors. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Tailor Your Application
When preparing your cover letter and CV, highlight your relevant research experience and skills that align with the PhD position. Be specific about your background in biochemistry and any hands-on experience with techniques like protein crystallisation or X-ray analysis. This will make you stand out as a strong candidate.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the MPL, the training network, and the collaborative opportunities available. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the position is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Focus on explaining your past research projects and how they relate to the PhD role. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experiences, the better you'll perform in the actual interview.
