PhD student position in New functions of amyloid fibers - Gothenburg, Sverige - Chalmers tekniska högskola

Beskrivning

The Wittung-Stafshede research group is looking for a PhD student to explore newly-discovered catalytic activity of amyloid fibers. Major focus will be on alpha-synuclein involved in Parkinson's disease. The project will involve purified proteins, cell cultures, metabolomics, spectroscopy, microscopy, various biochemical assays and more. The successful candidate will work on a frontline research topic in a vibrant research environment with excellent infrastructure.

Information about the division In the (ChemBio), we combine and develop protein engineering, synthetic chemistry, nucleic acid technology, and state-of-the-art biophysical methods (spectroscopy, live cell imaging and nanotechnology) to address cutting-edge questions in biology and meet medical challenges. Our joint expertise is strategic and spans from molecular biophysics of single molecules to cell and organism biology.

Project description In Wittung-Stafshede's research group, a combination of biochemical and biophysical methods are employed to study functional properties of individual proteins and of cellular pathways on a molecular, mechanistic level. The overall goal is to increase basic knowledge important for human health and to counteract diseases. Current research directions include the role of copper-binding proteins in cancer and how protein misfolding and aggregation result in amyloids. Recent results have shown that amyloids formed by the protein alpha-synuclein, which is linked to Parkinson's disease, can act as enzymes and catalyze chemical reactions.

This PhD project will explore this novel amyloid activity in vitro, in cells, and through metabolomic approaches. The focus will be on alpha-synuclein and Parkinson, but other amyloidogenic proteins may be included.

In addition, the role of metal ions as modulators of catalytic activity, liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), and final amyloid structure will be elucidated.

The project will involve a range of biochemistry and biophysics (spectroscopy, microscopy) methods using purified proteins along with cell culture studies as appropriate.

Some parts of the project may involve collaborators.
The project may change focus over time, depending on results and interests.

Overall, the goal is to reveal new knowledge about amyloids that, in the long-term, is helpful to combat neurodegenerative disorders.

Major responsibilities Your major responsibilities are to pursue your own doctoral studies. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing. The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 20 per cent of working hours.