PhD in organic/supramolecular chemistry: Harnessing Transmembrane Gradients

Project

Nonequilibrium transmembrane processes are crucial in almost every biological process. Pumping and harnessing transmembrane gradients provides a convenient and efficient way for life to store and transduce energy. These fundamentally nonequilibrium processes require the application of ratchet mechanisms. We are interested in creating artificial dynamic nonequilibrium compartmentalised systems. Application of ratchet mechanisms can allow transmembrane gradients to be pumped, and the energy released upon dissipating gradients to be harnessed to drive other processes. Applying these proof-of-concept systems will ultimately enable the development of life-like complex dynamic nonequilibrium compartmentalised systems.

In this project, you will leverage design principles from molecular machines to harness transmembrane gradients as an energy source to create artificial pumps and drive other nonequilibrium processes.

Skills and training

You will receive hands-on training in synthetic organic chemistry (synthesis, purification and characterisation of organic compounds using a variety of techniques), lipid bilayer chemistry, physical organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry and molecular machines.

You will also have the chance to attend the departmental seminar programme, national symposia and international conferences, in this way presenting your project results, refining your communication skills and engaging with other scientists from academia and industry. Tailored mentoring and support will be provided.

Details

·        Fully funded Royal Society PhD scholarship for 48 months, including tuition fees.

·        Open to UK and Ireland or settled/pre-settled candidates only (due to funding stipulations).

·        Starting date October 2024, or sooner.

How to apply

We are looking for enthusiastic chemists from all backgrounds who are fascinated by the idea of nonequilibrium processes and molecular machines.

You should have a Masters degree or equivalent in Chemistry or a related subject, or obtain it before the end of October 2024.

To apply, please send a CV and a cover letter to Dr Stefan Borsley (stefan.h.borsley@durham.ac.uk). 

Durham University and the Department of Chemistry

Durham university, in the North of England, is a world top 100 university (QS World University rankings 2022) with a global reputation for teaching and research. It is ranked 5^th or 6^th in the UK by The Times, The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022, the Complete University Guide 2022 and 5^th in the UK for Chemistry in the Guardian University Guide 2022.

Durham university is one of the UK’s most historic universities, sitting in a beautiful, hilly city whose Romanesque Cathedral is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Durham’s unique college system creates a strong sense of belonging, offers several social activities and provides students with additional pastoral care. As a PhD student in Durham, you will become part of a dynamic and friendly community, and benefit from cutting-edge facilities.

The Department of Chemistry is well-equipped, with modern research laboratories, state-of-the-art instrumentation and world-class facilities located at the Science Campus, within short walking distance to Durham city centre. 96% of our research outputs were rated world-leading or internationally excellent in the latest UK-wide review (REF 2021). The Department also has close research links with many industrial partners and other universities in the UK and abroad, with leading scientists from around the world visiting and collaborating with us.

The University provides a working and teaching environment that is inclusive and welcoming, where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect. We actively encourage applicants with diverse career paths and backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and religious beliefs.