PhD Scholarship in Computational Biophysics: Potassium Channel Simulations

PhD Scholarship in Computational Biophysics: Potassium Channel Simulations

An exciting opportunity for an outstanding PhD candidate to investigate the molecular mechanisms of potassium channel function.

The aim of this project is to describe ion conduction and activation/inactivation processes by employing molecular dynamics and statistical mechanical methods. The expected outcome is an improved description of how these proteins respond to physiological stimuli to control electrical signalling the body.

This project, in collaboration with researchers at Cornell University, USA, is funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It will employ cutting-edge computational approaches using Australian and American supercomputers, alongside single-particle cryo-electron microscopy and functional experiments. The work is expected to be high impact, having already been published in Nature, and will provide excellent career possibilities for a talented and driven student.

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The scholarship is valued at AU $32,260 per year for up to 3.5 years. It is expected the student will commence mid-2020.

One (1).

To be considered for the scholarship, the applicant must:

  • Hold (or be completing) a Masters of Research or first-class Honours degree in physics, chemistry or a related discipline
  • Have some research experience involving computation in condensed matter physics, physical chemistry or biology
  • Possess a strong interest in biological problems using physical and chemical theory and computer-based techniques
  • Meet RMIT’s entry requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy. and
  • Be judged to be highly competitive for RMIT PhD scholarships, having achieved high distinction (80+%) over the final two years of their studies. Note that, although supported by this scholarship, it is expected that the student will apply for competitive scholarships in the next RMIT PhD funding round.

RMIT University reserves the right to refuse scholarship to a candidate judged not to be highly competitive for RMIT scholarships, or who does not satisfy all selection criteria.

Please send a brief (maximum 1 page) expression of interest with your CV and transcripts to Prof. Toby Allen via toby.allen@rmit.edu.au

Prof. Toby Allen via toby.allen@rmit.edu.au

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