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PhD studentship (Molecular Simulation and Modelling) : London, United Kingdom
Applications are invited for a PhD studentship in Dr. Arianna Fornili’s group at Queen Mary University of London starting from October 2015.
Applications are welcome from outstanding European/UK students with or expecting to obtain a degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Biophysics or related disciplines.
Background: the research activity of the group is focused on the computational modelling of structural and dynamical properties of proteins from the cardiac sarcomere, the repeating unit of heart muscle cells. At the molecular level, heart contraction arises from the complex motions of the proteins that compose the sarcomere. The normal functioning of the heart relies on the correct regulation and coordination of these motions, so that amino acid mutations affecting single proteins can damage the whole sarcomeric machinery. Indeed, a large number of mutations in sarcomeric proteins have been linked to inherited cardiac diseases.
The identification of new therapies for cardiomyopathies relies on a deep understanding of these mechanisms at the atomistic level. Using a combination of state-of-the-art Molecular Modelling, Molecular Dynamics and Bioinformatics techniques, the successful candidate will investigate how cardiomyopathy-related mutations affect the motion and stability of key components of the cardiac sarcomere.
Techniques and Training: the successful candidate will be trained in a wide range of computational techniques for the study of biomolecules, including Comparative Modelling of protein structures, basic and advanced Molecular Dynamics simulation techniques and Structural Bioinformatics tools. Moreover, the student will gain experience in Unix-based operating systems and in scripting and programming languages for biomolecular analyses. The training will also include the development of skills essential for career progression, including management of research projects, presentation and writing skills.
Environment: Queen Mary University of London is a member of the Russell group and is one of the leading research-focused institutions in the UK. All PhD students and Post-doctoral researchers are part of theQMUL Doctoral College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
Application: for informal enquires please contact Dr. Fornili (a.fornili at qmul.ac.uk) and include your CV, a covering letter explaining eligibility and interest in the project and the contact details of two academic referees.
Eligibility: Applications are welcome from outstanding European/UK students with or expecting to obtain a degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Biophysics or related disciplines. Previous experience in molecular modelling/simulation and/or computer programming is desirable but not essential.
Funding notes: The studentship will cover tuition fees and provide an annual tax-free maintenance allowance for 3 years at Research Councils UK rates (£15,863 in 2014/15)….
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Job details
Employer:Queen Mary University of London
Website:http://www.qmul.ac.uk/
Location:London, United Kingdom
Expires:March 23, 2015
Job type:PhD Studentship
Salary:Unspecified
Qualifications:Postgraduate - Master's degree
Employment type:Temporary
Job hours:Full-time