Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Molecular Biology and Genetics programme. The position is available from August 2025 or later.
Title:
Cryo-EM structure determination of complement convertases and functional validation
Research area and project description:
The complement system is the first line of defense against pathogens and maintains homeostasis in the circulation and tissues. Pattern-dependent activation of complement leads to cleavage of the 185 kDa complement C3 by C3 convertase enzymes which are ~250 kDa two-subunit enzymes. Therapeutic modulation of convertases and their substrates is well established in the clinic to treat multiple rare diseases.
The convertases and their substrate complexes are unstable. The project will therefore explore novel strategies to stabilize such large complexes through subunit bridging. Structures will be determined on a local state-of-the art Krios cryo-EM microscope and in-house world-class computational infrastructure.
Functional and biophysical evaluation of the obtained atomic models will be carried out in collaboration with local and international collaborators.
The project builds on results presented in the publication PMID: 39849196 and related unpublished cryo-EM structures. The project is funded by a grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
Before applying, please first contact Professor Gregers Rom Andersen at gra@mbg.au.dk to learn more about the PhD position, discuss the project and the application process.
For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. When - as here - you apply for a specific project, please simply copy the project description above, and upload it as a PDF in the application. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found.
Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants must have a relevant MSc degree in molecular biology, molecular medicine, biotechnology, biology, nanotechnology, medicinal chemistry or related field to apply for a three year PhD position. Local applicants with a relevant BSc degree in these fields are also encouraged to apply for a four year PhD position.
Prior experience with structural biology, protein purification and mammalian cell culture is desirable but not essential. The following personal characteristics are taken into account during evaluation of the candidate: 1) Excellent written/oral communication skills in English. 2) Ability to work and think independently. 3) Curious and self-driven to learn new techniques from collaborators.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Universitetsbyen 81, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark, Denmark.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact:
Professor Gregers Rom Andersen gra@mbg.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 2025)
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.
