Solar at the Nanoscale: High-resolution Mapping of Light-Harvesting Proteins with High-Speed Atomic Force Microscopy

Understanding photosynthesis could provide valuable clues for developing future solar technology and engineering improved food crops. Solar photons are absorbed by the biomembranes within plants, where large numbers of Light-Harvesting Complex (LHC) proteins act as a satellite dish for channelling energy to Photosystem (PS) proteins. However, we need a better understanding of the dynamic structure and biophysical properties of the system. Recent developments in Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) allow us to watch single proteins move and function with video-speed imaging at the nanoscale. This incredible level of detail in time and space is enabled by our world-class AFM facility and our expertise in working with light harvesting biomembranes. This project involves using newly developed High-Speed (HS) AFM methods to quantify important protein dynamics that are associated with energy transfer processes which are vital to life.<br /> <br /> As part of this PhD project, you will:<br /> • Master HS-AFM techniques, becoming proficient in operating this state-of-the-art microscope and data acquisition methods.<br /> • Explore photosynthetic proteins at nanoscale resolution, revealing their dynamic behaviours. You will develop confidence working with biological samples.<br /> • Develop advanced analysis protocols and algorithms to process HS-AFM images and videos, contributing to important new methods in the field.<br /> • Collaborate with researchers, working at the intersection of biophysics, chemistry, and renewable energy.<br /> <br /> This project is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in biophysics, physical chemistry, membrane proteins, or advanced microscopy. Your research will contribute to the development of knowledge crucial biological process and could have future impact on solar technologies and sustainability.<br />

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Physics & Astronomy FT</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Solar at the Nanoscale: High-resolution Mapping of Light-Harvesting Proteins with High-Speed Atomic Force Microscopy</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/physics/staff/6132/dr-george-heath">Dr George Heath</a> as your proposed supervisor and in the finance section, please state clearly <em><strong>the funding that you are applying for is School of Physics & Astronomy Studentship, if you are self-funding or externally sponsored (including the name of your sponsor)</strong></em>.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing">Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 20 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p style="margin-bottom:12px"><strong>Funded 3.5 years  – </strong>A highly competitive School of Physics & Astronomy Studentship providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years. There are no additional allowances for travel, research expenses, conference attendance or any other costs.</p> <p>You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£320 in Session 2024/25), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p> <p><strong>Self-Funded or externally sponsored international students are welcome to apply</strong></p> <p>The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/48-china-scholarship-council-university-of-leeds-scholarships-2021">China Scholarship Council - University of Leeds Scholarship</a> is available to nationals of China (deadline 17^th Dec 2024). <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p>You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£320 in Session 2024/25).</p> <p><strong>Important: </strong> Any costs associated with your arrival at the University of Leeds to start your PhD including flights, immigration health surcharge/medical insurance and Visa costs are <em><strong>not</strong></em> covered under these studentships.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information on the project do not hesitate to contact any of the project supervisors by email (e.g. George Heath at <a href="mailto:p.g.adams@leeds.ac.uk">g.r.heath@leeds.ac.uk</a> and/or Peter Adams at P.G.Adams@leeds.ac.uk). We are always happy to discuss scientific questions with pro-active candidates. For details on how to apply and admin arrangements, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email: <a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">m</a><a href="mailto:maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk">aps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a>.</p>