24.11.06 : PhD Studentship "Structural biology of bacterial motility"

PhD Studentship starting September 200
"Structural biology of bacterial motility"

Applications are invited from top 5% final-year biophysics/biochemistry students to undertake PhD studies on the molecular mechanism of torque generation in bacterial flagellar motor at the University of Manchester, UK.

Flagellar motors are membrane-embedded molecular machines that rotate filaments, providing a propulsive force for bacteria to swim toward nutrients, optimal temperatures or other factors that favour survival. The rotation is powered by the gradient of hydrogen or sodium ions across the cytoplasmic membrane. We aim to elucidate the molecular mechanism of conversion of the electrochemical energy of the transmembrane proton gradient into the mechanical energy of flagellar rotation. This complex biological question can be addressed through investigation of the properties and the three-dimensional structure of the individual components and domains of the power-generating stator unit of the motor.

A PhD student would join the project to investigate the precise role of extramembrane domains of MotA and MotB proteins in interaction with the peptidoglycan layer, assembly of the stator unit and interaction with the rotor protein FliG. This work will involve the use a range of techniques including X-ray crystallography, CD, SPR, ITC, AUC, small angle scattering and, if required, NMR, which will give a student an excellent opportunity to advance their knowledge and practical skills in biochemistry, biophysics and structural biology.

Successful candidates will receive an Overseas Research Student Award which covers tuition fees.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Dr Anna Roujeinikova: Anna.Roujeinikova@manchester.ac.uk

http://www.mib.ac.uk/details.aspx?val=97927