PhD in Dynamical Protein Structure Modelling at Durham University and the Diamond Light Source

Applications are welcomed for a 4-year PhD in Applied Mathematics/Physics/Computational Biology, for the following fully funded project:

Developing a topologically driven Bayesian model for flexible protein structure prediction using XFMS

The project is jointly hosted by Durham University (Supervisor Dr Christopher Prior) and the Diamond Light Source (Supervisor Dr Rob Rambo). The aim of the project is to develop theoretical methodologies and software to model and resolve protein dynamics using the new X-ray foot Printing experimental end-station (XFMS), recently developed at the Soft Condensed Matter Group of the Diamond Light Source.  This is the first such facility in Europe and will contribute significantly to our understanding of how these fundamental biological macromolecules behave in their natural environments. The student will be expected to further develop and merge cutting edge theoretical tools developed by the project supervisors [1,2] in conjunction with the development of protocols for the experimental apparatus itself. It will be a highly interdisciplinary endeavour and we seek a student who is enthusiastic about interacting with both experiment and theory.

The PhD will provide training in protein physics and chemistry, discrete optimisation/machine learning, molecular dynamics simulations and experimental techniques in synchrotron X-ray data collections for mass-spectrometry. The project offers substantial engagement with a wide variety of both theoretical and experimental researchers. The Durham applied mathematics group (and its associated collaborators in Physics and Biosciences) represent a vibrant research group which will expose the candidate to a variety of theoretical techniques and skills as well as broad range of research interests.  The world class Diamond Light Source, which houses the SAXS beamlines B21 and I22 and macromolecular crystallography beamline VMXi, offers the chance to interact with a both world leading x-ray scientists and wide variety of users who are pursuing fundamental questions in biological and medical research.  A good BSc (or equivalent) degree any of Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physics, Chemistry or (with a significant theoretical component) biosciences is required. Some experience with scientific computing is highly desirable. 

The project offers quite a unique opportunity for break-throughs in protein science that will develop a new set of research tools for the UK life science community. XFMS is a technique that directly inform on protein behaviour in living cells at atomistic resolutions.  The XFMS information can be used to validate protein dynamic simulations, AI-derived protein structures models, vaccine targets and follow time-resolved changes in protein structure due to drug/ligand binding. 

The role will begin in October 2024 and includes a generous funded stipend, £2000 PA above the minimum UK research stipend (which is £19,237 for 2024-2025), covers all university/institutional fees and includes a substantial yearly travel and conference budget.

How to apply

To apply for this position, please send a copy of your CV and a cover letter detailing your motivation for the position to either of the project supervisors, christopher.prior@durham.ac.uk or robert.rambo@diamond.ac.uk, by 12 April 2024.

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