DPhil studentship in the area of soft condensed matter at the nanometre scale: 'single molecule trapping and measurement'

Start Date: 1st October 2018

Supervisor: Professor Madhavi Krishnan (research webpage: http://research.chem.ox.ac.uk/madhavi-krishnan.aspx )

Applications are invited for a fully-funded DPhil (PhD) studentship supervised by Prof. Madhavi Krishnan in Physical & Theoretical Chemistry. Prof. Madhavi Krishnan is looking for a talented and highly motivated doctoral student with a strong undergraduate background in physics, biophysics, or physical chemistry, to join her research group in taking forward an exciting emerging area of microscopy-based single molecule measurement.

The group works in the broad area of soft condensed matter at the nanometre scale and has a specific interest in measuring and understanding electrostatics in molecular-scale matter, e.g., biological macromolecules. Using the repulsive electrostatic interaction in solution, the group recently demonstrated the ability to spatially trap single molecules in solution without the use of external forces (Nature, 2010; Nature Nanotechnology, 2012; Nature Nanotechnology, 2017). This "field-free" trap now enables measurements of the physical properties of macromolecules such as their electrical charge, size and 3D conformation with unprecedented precision, one at a time and in real time. The experimental approaches involved centre around optical imaging and spectroscopy and nanofabrication techniques. The work also relies on theory and simulation, specifically focusing on numerical mean-field electrostatics calculations and Brownian Dynamics simulations.

The ideal candidate will hold a degree in physics, physical chemistry, biophysics, or a related area. Biochemistry students with a flair for more physical approaches to problems are also encouraged to apply. This studentship will cover College and University fees at Home/EU rate plus provide a maintenance grant at a UK Research Council rate – £14,777 per annum for three years.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Prof. Krishnan prior to submitting a formal application. Please send a single PDF consisting of a cover letter (explaining your background and motivation) and CV including contact information for your references, by email to: [Email Address Removed]

You will be required to submit a formal application (http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate ) for a DPhil in Physical & Theoretical Chemistry

Please quote: MK/2018 in your application form.

Application deadline: the position will be advertised until filled but you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Queries related to the application process should be directed to: [Email Address Removed]

The Department of Chemistry is the holder of Athena SWAN Silver Award.