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:
Time resolved studies of complement activation and phagocytosis
Research area and project description:
The complement system is a component of the extracellular innate immune system. Atomic structures have captured stable conformations of large multidomain complement proteins, but no dynamic information is available. The project will fill this gap and offer insight on the actual paths taken in conformational changes and their duration.
As cases, we will analyze two large multidomain complement proteins and their complexes using single molecule FRET (smFRET) spectroscopy. We will integrate this dynamic information with structural information to generate detailed structure & time based mechanistic models for two key effector functions of complement: Activation of the terminal pathway and phagocytosis of complement opsonized cells.
To enable smFRET studies we will develop donor-acceptor reporter systems based on atomic structures using a double approach. First, we will use our unique know-how to establish site-specific incorporation of non-canonical amino acids in complement proteins for fluorophore labeling. Second, we will label a battery of well-characterized complement specific single domain antibodies.
The project builds on a number of unpublished cryo-EM structures. The student will combine cryo-EM , smFRET and functional assays. The student will work in a team with a postdoc and a staff scientist. The smFRET work will be carried out in collaboration with the group of Victoria Birkedal at the iNANO center at Aarhus University located near to the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics. 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.
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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, biophysics, protein purification and mammalian cell culture is desirable but not essential. The following personal characteristics are considered 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
Associate Professor Victoria Birkedal, vicb@inano.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.
