Until recently it was thought that all ribosomes were the same, but substantial new evidence has revealed that different ribosomal populations exist and that they can regulate translation. These different ribosomes are termed 'specialised ribosomes'. This project aims to understand the structure of specialised ribosomes, using an integrated structural approach that includes cutting-edge cryo-EM and mass spectrometry (MS). Combined with the efforts of a currently established team working on the function of these specialised ribosomes, we aim to understand how the ribosomal structure enables the translation of specific mRNAs.
We have discovered differences in ribosome composition in different animal tissues (from Drosophila), and we have established a protocol for ribosome purification from these tissues and cryo-EM reconstruction at high resolution (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34283226/). We are currently working on purifying ribosomes containing a specific set of proteins, to allow their characterisation by cryo-EM and MS.
To understand changes to ribosome structures and mechanisms of translation regulation this project will involve cryo-EM, to resolve the structure of the ribosome at close-to-atomic resolution; native MS, to gain detailed insight into the composition of specific ribosome populations; and novel MS methods to probe sites of interaction/dynamics and define ribosome topology (e.g. chemical crosslinking, HDX-MS, ion mobility)
Funding Note
This studentship is part of the BBSRC White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership in Mechanistic Biology. (https://www.whiterose-mechanisticbiology-dtp.ac.uk/). Appointed candidates will be fully-funded for 4 years. The funding includes:
Tax-free annual UKRI stipend (£15,609 for 2021/22 starts. Awards increase every year, typically with inflation).
UK tuition fees (Around £4,500 per year)
Research Training and Support Grant (RTSG)
Conference and Professional Internships for PhD Students (PIPS) allowances
We aim to support the most outstanding applicants from inside and outside the UK. We are able to offer a limited number of bursaries that will enable full studentships to be awarded to international applicants. These full studentships will only be awarded to exceptional quality candidates, due to the competitive nature of this scheme.
Not all projects will be funded; the DTP will appoint a limited number of candidates via a competitive process.
How to apply
Applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application.
- a full academic CV
- degree certificate and transcripts of marks
- Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable).
To help us identify that you are applying for this studentship project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;
- Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study
- Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert
- For source of funding please state you are applying for a White Rose BBSRC DTP funded studentship
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