The Membrane Structural and Functional Biology group of the Caffrey Lab, Trinity College Dublin, seeks to solve the structure of medically important membrane proteins for use in structure/function studies and for structure-based therapeutics development. Target proteins play a role in atherogenesis, cancer, allergies and pain and in communicable and other non-communicable diseases. In support of this activity, we seek a highly self-motivated and committed Postgraduate Research Fellow.
The Fellowship is available for work in the areas of bacterial quorum sensing and cell coat synthesis. Many pathogenic bacteria have the ability to sense when enough of them occupy a particular space to begin producing a stable biofilm that supports further growth and virulence. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one such opportunistic pathogen that engages in this quorum sensing process. It is responsible for illness and death in individuals whose immunity has been compromised such as cystic fibrosis and burns patients. Projects are underway to solve the atomic-resolution structure of a number of membrane proteins from P. aeruginosa and other pathogenic bacteria involved in cell quorum sensing and cell coat synthesis. The goal is to use the structural information to understand how these processes take place at a molecular level and to assist in the design of new and improved antibiotics and vaccines to counter the global threat of antimicrobial infections and resistance.
Candidates should have a high-level honours degree or its equivalent in biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology, chemistry, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, molecular medicine or a related discipline.
How to apply
Candidates are asked to submit a letter detailing education, training and why they feel they are suitable for the position in an interdisciplinary group. The letter must be accompanied by a full CV to include the names and contact details of two referees (email addresses and phone numbers to be provided).
Applications should be sent to: msfbPG2020@gmail.com
