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Funded PhD Studentship starting September 2007 'Structural biology of bacterial motility' A PhD studentship is available to study the molecular mechanism of torque generation in bacterial flagellar motor. Flagellar motors are membrane-embedded molecular machines that rotate filaments, providing a propulsive force for bacteria to swim toward nutrients, optimal temperatures or other factors that favour survival. The rotation is powered by the gradient of hydrogen or sodium ions across the cytoplasmic membrane. We aim to elucidate the molecular mechanism of conversion of the electrochemical energy of the transmembrane proton gradient into the mechanical energy of flagellar rotation. This complex biological question can be addressed through investigation of the properties and the three-dimensional structure of the individual components and domains of the power-generating stator unit of the motor. A PhD student would join the project to investigate the precise role of extramembrane domains of MotA and MotB proteins in interaction with the peptidoglycan layer, assembly! of the stator unit and interaction with the rotor protein FliG. This work will involve the use a range of techniques including X-ray crystallography, CD, SPR, ITC, AUC, small angle scattering and, if required, NMR, which will give a student an excellent opportunity to advance their knowledge and practical skills in biochemistry, biophysics and structural biology. References: DeRosier, D. J. (1998) The turn of the screw: the bacterial flagellar motor. Cell 93, 17-20; Berry, R. M. & Armitage, J. P. (1999) The bacterial flagella motor. Adv. Microb. Physiol. 41, 291-337; Berg, H. C. (2003) The rotary motor of bacterial flagella. Annu. Rev. Biochem. 72, 19-54; Blair, D. F. (2003) Flagellar movement driven by proton translocation. FEBS Lett. 545, 86-95. Further Information This studentship is open to UK/EU applicants who have, or expect to obtain a 2:1 or first class honours degree in a relevant subject. Further information can be obtained by contacting Dr Anna Roujeinikova: [EMAIL PROTECTED] phone: (0161)-306 5155 http://www.mib.ac.uk/details.aspx?val=97927 How to Apply Application forms can be obtained from: http://www.ls.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/howtoapply/ or by contacting the Faculty of Life Sciences, Graduate Office (email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Tel: 0161 275 3883). Applications with two letters of reference should be returned to: The Graduate Office, Faculty of Life Sciences, 1.21 Simon Building, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL.
