Wednesday, January 7, 2009

PhD Studentships in Theoretical Biophysics (Saarbruecken, Germany)

PhD positions in Theoretical Biophysics / Computational Physics are
offered by the junior research group

Theoretical & Computational Membrane Biology
in Saarbrücken, Germany.

Possible PhD projects include

* the investigation of protein-lipid interactions on the atomic
scale, using the method of molecular dynamics simulations,

* the prediction of the action of drugs and peptides on membranes
and membrane proteins (e.g. of anesthetics),

* the study of pore formation in membranes by external electric
fields
(e.g. electroporation),

* the modeling of membrane fusion, and

* the in silico study of phase transitions in biological membranes
and their role in the function of membrane proteins.


Work of the group for Theoretical & Computational Membrane Biology is
focused on the prediction of structure, function and (nano)dynamics of
membranes and proteins. Our main interest is directed towards the
interplay of proteins (e.g. of ion channels) with the surrounding
lipids and drugs in biological (cell) membranes. Addressed questions
cover: How do peptides and proteins interact with the membrane? Can we
predict fusion, budding, fission properties? How is transport along and
through membranes achieved? Currently, the international group
consists of five PhD students and several Master and Bachelor students.

Applicants should have successfully completed their Masters or Diploma
degree preferably in physics or theoretical (bio)chemistry, be strongly
motivated and team-oriented. Experience in Molecular Modeling or
structural biology is of advantage, however, applicants from other
fields of research are most welcome. The PhD positions are funded
according to the German TVöD scale (2/3 E13) or with a stipend (1,460
Euro/month). The positions are limited to three years.

The University of Saarbrücken strives to increase the percentage of
female employees in the field of science and encourages applications
from female candidates. Handicapped applicants are welcome.

Interested candidates should send their application letter + CV
(including the names of one or two people who would be willing to send
a letter of recommendation) by E-mail (pdf) to:

rainer@bioinformatik.uni-saarland.de

Rainer Böckmann
Theoretical & Computational Membrane Biology
66041 Saarbrücken
Phone: ++49-(0)681/302-64169 (68627)