Funded PhD Studentship
Weak protein-protein interactions in the P450 BM3 system
Supervisors
Dr Robin Curtis — School of Chemical Engineering & Analytical Science
Prof. Andrew Munro — Faculty of Life Sciences
Project Aim
The P450 BM3 enzyme is used as a model system for understanding P450 function. The goal is to elucidate the structure of the P450 BM3 enzyme, which is composed of a P450 heme domain, and FAD/NADPH binding and FMN binding domains. We will use an approach combining kinetic/spectroscopic studies with light scattering measurements to probe protein-protein interactions of the unfused domains complemented with computational modelling.
The results will provide details of the 3-dimensional organization of domains within the functional dimer unit and the role of domain flexibility in enzyme function. The student will receive training in a broad range of biophysical characterization techniques (steady-state and stopped-flow kinetics, static and dynamic light scattering, analytical ultracentrifugation, isothermal titration calorimetry, and others), protein production and purification, and molecular modelling.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a first or upper second class UK honours degree, or equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science or technology.
The studentship provides funding for fees and stipend at the Research Council UK rate and are available to eligible UK and EU nationals (due to funding criteria, EU nationals MUST have resided in the UK for three years prior to commencing the studentship). EU applicants that have not resided in the UK for three years prior to commencing the studentship, are eligible for a ‘fees only’ studentship.
Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Robin Curtis R.Curtis@manchester.ac.uk
See http://www.dtpstudentships.ls.manchester.ac.uk/howtoapply/ for details of the application process