Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Physics and Astronomy programme. The position is available from August 2024 or later.
Title:
Elucidating multiple and non-local ionization of the building blocks of DNA by X-ray irradiation
Research area and project description:
The goal of this project is to elucidate how radiation damage occurs on the molecular scale – and how we may control it for targeted cell protection or destruction in view of improving cancer therapies. We will implement a novel experimental approach that combines synchrotron radiation (extreme ultraviolet and X-ray) with water nanoparticles as well as biomolecule-water complexes prepared in the gas-phase. By detecting the emitted electrons and ions in a electron-ion coincidence spectrometer, we will obtain detailed information about various intra- and intermolecular relaxation processes occurring in water and at the biomolecule-water interface. To approach the conditions prevailing in real biological systems where biomolecules are fully solvated in aqueous medium, nanometer-sized water particles will be generated by a new nanoparticle injector and biomolecules up to the size of the building blocks of DNA (nucleotides) will be embedded in the water nanoparticles prior to irradiation. This new approach of combining synchrotron radiation, electron-ion coincidence detection techniques with jets of bio-relevant nanoparticles in the gas-phase will give new insights into radiation chemistry and radiobiology.
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Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants must have a relevant Master’s degree or at least one year of a Master’s degree in physics, chemistry or nanoscience.
The applicant should be familiar with synchrotron spectroscopy, photoelectron imaging spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, electron-ion coincidence detection, vacuum technology, generation of free jets of nanoparticles.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Physics and Astronomy, Ny Munkegade 120, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact: Associate Professor Marcel Mudrich, mudrich@phys.au.dk
How to apply:
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.
When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 March 2024)
Please note:
At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.
Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.
