Ultrafast protein structural dynamics with X-ray Free Electron Lasers and Optical Lasers

A 3 year EPSRC-funded PhD studentship is offered in the group of Jasper van Thor at Imperial College London in the area of ultrafast X-ray Free Electron Laser (XFEL) and ultrafast laser science. XFEL’s are revolutionising structural biology to add the time domain to atomic resolution information, with a time resolution currently possible of ~100 femtoseconds using the pump-probe technique. Experiments at X-ray Free Electron Lasers will involve data analysis and experimental configuration in a team-based setting to execute femtosecond time-resolved X-ray crystallography experiments. These are pump-probe experiments applied to the ‘Serial Femtosecond Crystallography’ method. In the home laboratory the research will also involve ultrafast spectroscopy of oriented single protein crystals to measure and control femtosecond reactions. In collaboration with the Jon Marangos group in the Physics Department there will be additional opportunities to join X-ray Free Electron Laser experiments to gain experience with experiments relevant to atomic, molecular and optical physics

Eligibility and how to apply:

Applicants should have a BSc degree at 2:1 level or better, either in Physics or in Chemistry and a relevant Masters degree in Physical Sciences ideally in ultrafast optics or laser science. Preference will be given to applicants with proven experience in coding, including Python, and who are comfortable with data handling and computation and have experimental experience. In exceptional cases Life Science graduates will be considered, but need to demonstrate ability and experience in computing and Physical Sciences methodologies as well as have excellent Mathematics skills.

Only UK and EU nationals who meet the UK residency requirements are eligible to apply (minimum of three years of continuous residency in the UK immediately prior to the start of the PhD). Non-EU nationals are not eligible.

Initial applications should include a full CV, names, addresses and contact details of two academic referees, and a personal statement (500 words max). These should be submitted to Jasper van Thor ([Email Address Removed])
Enquiries may also be made to Jasper van Thor ([Email Address Removed])

Deadline for submission of applications is 10th February 2017