Many antibiotics originate from a class of microbial natural products called non-ribosomal peptides, which are produced by large assembly line-like machines called non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs). NRPSs are composed of multiple enzymatic domains forming versatile multi-component modules; and this modularity of these multi-domain proteins makes bioengineering the proteins to produce new antibiotics an attractive prospect. However, we lack a key piece to the puzzle – we do not understand how communication between domains occurs and thus do not understand how catalysis is coordinated across the assembly line. This project aims to plug this gap by interrogating NRPS linker domain functionality using genetic, biochemical, and structural methods. The successful applicant will have an opportunity to become an expert in a diverse set of techniques including bacterial genetics and oligopool mutagenesis, next generation sequencing, various biochemical assays, x-ray crystallography and cryoEM. The outcomes of the project will make an impact on the AMR crisis by developing methodology for bioengineering the production of novel non-ribosomal peptide antibiotics.
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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