Ireland : SFI-Funded PHD studentship at NUI Galway

computational simulations of carbohydrate-protein complexes applied to the design of cancer diagnostics and anti-viral agents

Details: Variations in the carbohydrate sequence of glycans on cell surfaces are markers for several cancers and congenital and acquired diseases, including, pancreatic, breast, and liver cancer, diabetes, IgA nephropathy, Alzheimer’s.  The discovery and detection of these glycans is currently hindered by the lack of appropriate reagents.  In this project, we are using computational methods to guide re-engineering of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes to convert them into high-affinity receptor proteins suitable for use as glycan biosensors. 

The project provides training in the use of automated ligand docking and molecular dynamics simulation to predict the 3D structure of protein-carbohydrate complexes and the effects of chemical modifications on the strengths of these interactions.  The PhD student will have the opportunity to participate in the design and execution of experimental protein mutagenesis, according to their interests and abilities, and will work closely with a team of experimentalists.   No previous experience with computational simulations is required.

Requirements: Candidates should have a degree in chemistry, physics, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline, with a particular interest in applying theoretical methods to problems in human health.

Applications: (curriculum vitae, academic degree, references) should be sent to Prof. Rob Woods ( rob.woodsnuigalway), National University of Ireland, Galway, School of Chemistry, University Road, Galway, Ireland.

This project is funded by Science Foundation Ireland under the Principle Investigator Programme with partners at the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center at the University of Georgia, USA.

Stipend and Start Date: A fixed stipend of €18,000 per year is available. Tuition fees will be covered by the project, and there is a generous travel grant for the attendance at international meetings. It is anticipated that the PhD candidate will commence in September 2009.

 Molecular recognition of glycans in human disease

Details: Variations in the carbohydrate sequence of glycans on cell surfaces are markers for several cancers and congenital and acquired diseases, including, pancreatic, breast, and liver cancer, diabetes, IgA nephropathy, Alzheimer’s.  The discovery and detection of these glycans is currently hindered by the lack of appropriate reagents.  In this project, we are using computational methods to guide re-engineering of carbohydrate-degrading enzymes to convert them into high-affinity receptor proteins suitable for use as glycan biosensors. 

The project provides training in protein expression, engineering and biophysical characterization, using such techniques as site-directed and random mutagenesis, surface plasmon resonance and flow cytometry.  The PhD student will have the opportunity to participate in the computational design of protein mutants, according to their interests and abilities, and will work closely with a team of computational chemists.   No previous experience with protein expression and characterization is required.

Requirements: Candidates should have a degree in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology or a closely related discipline, and a strong motivation for research into problems in human health.

Applications: (curriculum vitae, academic degree, references) should be sent to Prof. Rob Woods ( rob.woodsnuigalway), National University of Ireland, Galway, School of Chemistry, University Road, Galway, Ireland.

This project is funded by Science Foundation Ireland under the Principle Investigator Programme with partners at the University of Georgia, USA.

Stipend and Start Date: A fixed stipend of €18,000 per year is available. Tuition fees will be covered by the project, and there is a generous travel grant for the attendance at international meetings. It is anticipated that the PhD candidate will commence in September 2009.

Further Information

Application Deadline : 31 December 1969

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Posted on 2009-07-12 06:22:40

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