Delivery and misdelivery of outer membrane proteins to the BAM complex using cryoEM

The BAM complex folds membrane proteins into the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, proteins whose functions are essential for bacterial viability, pathogenicity and virulence. Targeting OMP biogenesis is thus a potential route to combat antibiotic resistance. In recent work we have solved high-resolution cryoEM structures of BAM bound to antibacterial antibody fragments (White et al, Nat. Commun. (2021)). In this PhD studentship we will use state of the art cryoEM and protein engineering to solve the 3D structures of complexes between BAM and the chaperone and protease molecules that are essential for its function in vivo.<br /> <br /> You will get extensive hands-on experience with state-of-the-art cryoEM infrastructure at the Astbury Biostructure Laboratory, learning to solve the 3D structures of membrane proteins to near atomic resolution, and use molecular biology, and biophysical techniques to test complex formation, and folding activity the BAM complex.<br /> <br /> The outcome will be new fundamental knowledge of how OMPs are folded and how toxicity from OMP misfolding is dealt with, knowledge with broad benefits and potential applications in microbiology and antimicrobial resistance.

<p>To apply for this project opportunity applicants should complete an <a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/research-degrees/doc/how-to-apply">online application form</a> and attach the following documentation to support their application.&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>a full academic CV</li> <li>degree certificate and transcripts of marks</li> <li>Evidence that you meet the University&#39;s minimum English language requirements (if applicable)</li> </ul> <p>To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;</p> <ul> <li>Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study</li> <li>Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University&#39;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>

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>This project is open to applicants who have the funding to support their own studies or who have a sponsor who will cover these costs.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>For information about the application process please contact the Faculty Admissions Team:</p> <p>e: <a href="mailto:fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk">fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>