Mechanosensitive ion channels are membrane proteins that sense and respond to mechanical stress within cell membranes by allowing ions to flow through their pores. Mechanosensitive channels such as MscS and MscL are found in bacteria and are critical for many functions including the regulation of the efflux of ions to protect bacteria from hypo-osmotic shock. Despite some recent progress, our understanding of how mechanosensitive channels sense force through membrane lipids is often based on a static picture. Understanding how such channels work at the molecular level and how lipid molecules affect their ability to function is critical in order to inform efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance. This project will combine molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, EPR spectroscopy and electron microscopy to study: i) the activation mechanism of channels that belong to the bacterial mechanosensitive channel super family, and ii) how their activation may be regulated by specific lipids in the membrane. This project will provide novel insights into the basis of how force is sensed and how the membrane (via protein-lipid interactions) has a prominent regulatory effect, addressing the dynamics of the bacterial mechanosensitive channel super family at a molecular resolution.
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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