Investigating Electrostatic Interactions in Biomolecular Systems at the Nanoscale
Nanoscale characterization of electric charge and electric surface potentials in biomolecular systems is critical for understanding biomolecular interactions. Changes in surface potential dictate cellular-membrane transport and thus provide a crucial pathway for cells to interact with their environment. This project will focus on
investigating electrostatic interactions at biological surfaces using a scanning probe approach. Mapping electrostatic interactions in biological systems may provide a pathway to understand the role of charge in biological processes.
This interdisciplinary project will provide training in advanced ambient and liquid, structural and functional imaging using an atomic force microscope (AFM) and in biological sample preparation. The successful applicant will be
involved in the further development of advanced scanning probe techniques and novel shielded AFM probes and is expected to develop and publish their work and to present their work at national and international conferences. He/She will have access to state of the art AFMs, and will be expected to work closely with the Nanoscale
Function Group of Prof. Suzi Jarvis. Travel opportunities to interact with collaborating researchers and industrial partners are also envisaged.
Funding is available for up to 4 years and includes a stipend of €15k per annum, plus EU
fees.
Location: UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, Dublin, Ireland
Qualification: Candidates should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second BSc (or equivalent) or
MSc in Physics, Materials Science, Biology, or a related area. Funding is restricted to EU applicants only.
Contact Details: Highly motivated individuals with an interest in probing the physics of biological surfaces at
the nanoscale should send a letter outlining why they are suitable for the post, along with a current CV
including the contact details of two academic referees by email to:
Dr. Brian Rodriguez
Lecturer in Nanoscience
Conway Institute of Biomolecular
and Biomedical Research
University College Dublin,
Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
brian.rodriguez@ucd.ie
http://www.nanofunction.org
Deadline: Mar. 31, 2010
PhD2010.pdf
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