Reference number 2009/27
Application deadline 2009-04-09

Lipid bilayers are the key component of all biological membranes including the cell membrane. Biological membranes are mixtures of lipids and various types of protein components. The fragility, complexity and presence of the high number of constituents in the cell membrane limit the ability to discretely monitoring individual proteins. This fact calls for means to create systems that mimic the lipid membrane in order to study the functions of individual proteins. Furthermore, such systems might also be used forming devices utilizing the proteins function as for example in the creation of an ion channel based biosensor. To create such systems/devices, having suitable environments for fully functional membrane proteins, efforts needs to be taken in respect to stability, fluidity and enough available space for the protein above and below the membrane.  One promising way to accomplish this is to use solid supports of a robust often inorganic material. A successful design of such a device would be valuable for studying membrane proteins, as the basis for a transmembrane based biosensor and for drug delivery applications.

Job description

The objective of the PhD-project is to investigate the use of ordered mesoporous materials as solid supports for lipid bilayer membranes (LBM) and to use these systems as functional environments for transmembrane proteins, such as ion channels. The mesopores will function as ionic reservoirs allowing ions to be pumped through the proteins and hence the system will mimic the functions of living cells. Two types of mesoporous supports will be investigated. Mesoporous thin films deposited onto flat surfaces, which are part of a biosensor device, and onto nanoparticles made out of mesoporous materials. Using mesoporous thin films, the function of incorporated transmembrane proteins can be investigated, such as the opening and closing events of ion channels. The particles can be used for active substance storage for drug delivery purposes. In such applications, the transmembrane proteins can act both a targeting devices and as controlled release valves.

The project includes synthesis of nanomaterials, surface modifications, lipid-chemistry, protein reconstitution and electrophysiology.

The position is limited to maximum five years and corresponds to full-time research studies during four years. In addition, teaching in the undergraduate or masters curriculi at Chalmers could be included corresponding to one year, teaching work distributed over the whole time of the position.

Qualifications

The position suits a highly motivated individual with a well documented solid background in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields. Previous experience within the above mentioned fields is desired but not required.

The candidate is expected to have good presentation skills, high ability to read, understand, and speak English. Masters Degree (or equivalent) in Chemical engineering, physics or other related disciplines is required.

Application procedure

The application shall be written in English and include the following items:

1. An application of a maximum of one A4 page containing your specific qualifications for the position
2. Attested copies of education certificates, including grade reports and other documents
3. Curriculum Vitae
4. Letters of recommendation and name of reference persons (optional)

The application shall be sent electronically as pdf or zipped documents. Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.

If any material is not available electronically or cannot be transferred to pdf format, the material can be sent as a hard copy to Registrar. The applicants name and the reference number (2009/27) must be written on the first page of the application.

Address:

Registrar
Chalmers University of Technology
SE-412 96 Göteborg
Sweden

Further information

For further information, you are welcome to contact Assistant Professor Martin Andersson, martina@chalmers.se, phone no: +46 31 772 2966.

Union representatives

• SACO: Jan Lindér
• ST: Marie Wenander
• SEKO: Ralf Berndtsson

All reachable via Chalmers exchange: +46 31 772 10 00

Application form:

http://www.chalmers.se/chem/EN/news/vacancies/positions/phd-student-position-in_1/vacancy_application_form

Official announcement available at:

http://www.chalmers.se/chem/EN/news/vacancies/positions/phd-student-position-in_1