The plasma membrane at the surface of biological cells serves as a barrier to the outside world and is comprised of a complex mixture of proteins and lipids. These molecular factors at the surface collectively perform many biological processes essential for cellular function. This project aims to understand how proteins and lipids are organised at the cell surface, and how special subdomains called ‘eisosomes’ are created, building on our recently published work (Laidlaw et al., 2021 Journal of Cell Science). Uncovering the mechanisms behind the fundamental process of surface protein regulation will inform on various aspects of eukaryotic cell biology and lead to flexible avenues of investigation in the latter part of the project.
To achieve these aims, we will use cutting-edge tools, including a range of super-resolution microscopy techniques, microfluidics, high throughput robotics, alongside molecular, cellular, and biochemical approaches. Additionally, this project will use yeast as a model system, which allows for fast experimentation and rapid results. The project has been calibrated for diverse training and publication potential.
The project takes advantage of a collaboration between Chris MacDonald (Biology) and Mark Leake (Physics & Biology) allowing the aims to be tackled with a range of experimental techniques. As such, the project is suitable for applicants from a wide range of backgrounds with a variety of skills and expertise. Any additional training requirements will be customised for the successful applicant.
To find out more about our research and the technology we use, in addition to information about our current and previous lab members, please check out our websites and social media:
MacDonald Lab
Website: yorkyeast.co.uk
Twitter: @YorkYeast
Leake Lab
Website: single-molecule-biophysics.org
Twitter: @BPSIYork
The WR DTP and the University of York are committed to recruiting future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and we have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills.
Entry Requirements: Students with, or expecting to gain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. The interdisciplinary nature of this programme means that we welcome applications from students with backgrounds in any biological, chemical, and/or physical science, or students with mathematical backgrounds who are interested in using their skills in addressing biological questions.
Programme: PhD in Mechanistic Biology (4 years)
Start Date: 1st October 2022 (the student will be affiliated with the Department of Biology)
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in mid February 2022
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