Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Nanoscience programme. The position is available from August 2025 or later.
Title:
The form and function of non-canonical DNA structures in biofilms
Research area and project description:
Many bacteria form multicellular structures called “biofilms” where bacterial cells are encased in a shared extracellular matrix, protecting them from predators, antibiotics, and biocides. Bacteria build biofilms using a myriad of different proteins, lipids and polysaccharides. But almost all biofilms appear to have one component in common: Extracellular DNA (eDNA).
DNA can exist in many different structures that have different functional properties. We recently showed that eDNA in biofilms contain G-quadruplex structures that bind hemin (e.g. from blood) to form a peroxidase-like DNAzyme. Formation of G-quadruplex DNA in biofilms is associated with formation of Z-DNA through unknown mechanisms. The aim of this PhD project is to discover how bacteria form these non-canonical DNA structures from genomic DNA in the extracellular matrix, and how these structure impact the biology of biofilms and their interaction with the immune system.
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 MSc degree (or 4 years of university study for “4+4” applicants) in biology, molecular biology, nanoscience, or chemistry. Applicants that demonstrate a high level of knowledge in microbiology and/or structural properties of nucleic acids are preferred. The successful applicant is expected to collaborate with PhD students from other core fields in an interdisciplinary and dynamic research environment.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is iNANO. Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (www.inano.au.dk), was established in 2002 and at present is a major research and education center based at Aarhus University hosting 60 senior scientists, ~100 PostDocs and ~100 PhD students. The center combines expertise and faculty from Physics, Chemistry, Molecular biology and Medicine to carry out world class interdisciplinary research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. The center gives access to a broad range of infrastructure, tools and expertise including clean-room facilities. With a 5-year undergraduate nanotechnology programme and nanoscience graduate programme (www.inanoschool.au.dk) the center provides a full educational environment. In addition to the large base of basic research, the center has many ongoing industrial projects and partnerships.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact:
Professor Rikke Louise Meyer, rikke.meyer@inano.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.
