Characterising the dynamics of movement and mechanism in medically relevant molecular machines (MACMILLANU19CASER)

We are offering a unique 4yr PhD project in a multidisciplinary research environment including complementary training in magnetic resonance (UEA) and novel membrane protein purification and encapsulation methodology (Aston University and Peak Proteins)
We study the architecture and functional dynamics of membrane proteins, many medically relevant. Special interest is on large multi-subunit complexes such as transporter systems and their interaction with intra-cellular signalling pathways. There is increasing evidence that membrane proteins do not act alone, but that they are organised as nano-machineries which function through the concerted action of individual components with high precision and specificity observed in both time and space.

We are seeking to unravel the principles underlying the architecture and dynamics of these protein nano-machineries as well as their function and regulation. Our experimental approach focuses on the use of magnetic resonance spectroscopies in combination with novel encapsulation techniques to enhance protein yield thus allowing unambiguous experimental observations to provide a dynamic description of function.

This project addresses the important theme of transport across biological membrane through the study of amino acid transporters LeuT and GltPh which are members of the SLC6 and SLC1 transporter families, both structural homologues of key human transporters implicated in several diseased states including depression, anxiety and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Recent static crystal structures have suggested large scale conformational changes and we aim to probe the functional dynamics of the protein using state-of-the-art magnetic resonance techniques and novel protein encapsulation methods.

This Industrial CASE project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition on either the 8th, 9th or 10th January 2019.

The NRPDTP offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website: http://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/theprogramme/industrial-case