About the project

Technology advancement is critical to understand more about how biology works to design novel therapeutics. Structural mass spectrometry, is expanding rapidly and being used to solve broad, challenging questions in biology, chemistry and medicine both in industry and academia. The Leney lab has initiated the building of state-of-the-art hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) equipment that opens a new level of insight into how proteins move and interact with one another. This PhD student will embark on a transformative journey at the forefront of scientific discovery by applying HDX-MS to structural biology.

The PhD will involve hands-on training for 1 year in the operation and expansion of the current HDX-MS equipment. In the last 2 years, this technology will be applied to address diverse research areas within life sciences. These projects could include:

1. Understanding mechanisms behind DNA replication for cancer therapeutics
2. Revealing structural mechanisms on bacterial predators for the generation of novel antibiotics
3. The development of photosynthetic devices for renewable energy applications

Under the expert guidance of Dr. Aneika Leney, a leader in structural mass spectrometry, and Professor Teresa Carlomagno, a renowned structural biologist specializing in NMR, the PhD student will embedded within a highly skilled research environment offering a high level of training in diverse biochemical techniques. The University of Birmingham offers a unique and enriching academic experience by interdisciplinary collaborations, having cutting-edge mass spectrometry research facilities, and having a inclusive and dynamic research student community; a community that PhD students take pride in being part of.

References

http://www.leney-mass-spectrometry.com

Entry Requirements

Applicants will be expected to have a good Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class Honours degree) awarded by a recognised University in Biology, Chemistry, or a Biochemistry-related subject, and a keen interest in learning structural biology and associated techniques.

What does the scholarship provide?

1. Financial Support: Recipients of these scholarships will receive substantial financial support, including a stipend at UKRI rates, which is set at £18,622 per year. This support covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs, including bench fees. This support is designed to alleviate the financial burden often associated with pursuing a doctoral degree.
2. Mentorship and Guidance: Scholarship recipients will benefit from mentorship opportunities and guidance from accomplished faculty members who are dedicated to helping them succeed in their academic and research endeavours.
3. Research Opportunities: We are committed to providing an exceptional research environment. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge resources, and a vibrant scholarly community.
4. Community Building: A key component of the scholarship programme is the creation of a supportive community of Black British researchers pursuing PhDs. This network will foster collaboration and peer support among scholars.
5. Research Training Support Grant: In addition to financial support, scholarship recipients will receive a research training support grant. This grant is intended to support conference attendance, fieldwork, and other essential activities that enhance their research and academic growth.
6. Commitment to Inclusivity: We are dedicated to building an inclusive academic environment that values diversity and ensures equitable access to education.

Contact the lead supervisor

Once applicants have familiarised themselves with the above project details, they are encouraged to contact the lead PhD supervisor to discuss the project and the applicant's suitability for the project. This is recommended before you submit an application to the PhD project.

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