Nanomechanics of protein-protein interactions

Award details

Mechanical forces are integral to biological function. At the molecular level, these forces regulate protein interactions to trigger cellular responses; however, the molecular mechanisms underpinning these key binding events remain elusive due to experimental limitations. This project aims to overcome these challenges by developing and using advanced single-molecule techniques, offering a unique opportunity to explore how force governs protein interactions.

Your role:

As a PhD student, you will develop and apply cutting-edge single-molecule methods, combining force measurements with single-molecule fluorescence readouts, to capture individual protein binding events in mechanically stretched proteins. The goal of the project is to unveil how mechanical forces regulate binding affinities in force-sensing proteins from a single-molecule perspective. The project will be based on experimental work, with additional opportunities for instrument development and theoretical modelling to interpret your findings.

This is a highly interdisciplinary project at the interface of physics and biology, offering a stimulating research environment and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking science.

Your profile

Applicants should have, or expect to have, an integrated Master’s (e.g., MSci) with first-class honours or upper division second-class honours (2:1), or a BSc plus Master’s (MSc) degree with Merit or Distinction in Physics, Biophysics, Chemistry, or related subject.

The successful applicant will demonstrate strong interest and motivation in the subject, and ability to think critically and creatively. Previous research experience in Biophysics or interdisciplinary sciences is desirable.

Interested candidates are invited to contact the supervisor (Dr. Rafael Tapia-Rojo, rafael.rojo@kcl.ac.uk). Informal enquiries are encouraged.

More information about the lab’s work can be found at: https://tapia-rojolab.com.

Award value

The Studentship covers:

• Stipend: £22,780
• Tuition fees: £7,500

Application process

To be considered for the position candidates must apply via King’s Apply online application system. Details are available at https://apply.kcl.ac.uk.

Please apply for [Full time Physics PhD] and indicate Rafael Tapia-Rojo as the supervisor and quote the project title in your application and all correspondence.

Please ensure to add the following code [ECR02TapiaRojo] in the Funding section of the application form. Please select option 5 ‘I am applying for a funding award or scholarship administered by King’s College London’ and type the code into the ‘Award Scheme Code or Name’ box. Please copy and paste the code exactly.

The selection process will involve a pre-selection on documents and, if selected, will be followed by an invitation to an interview. If successful at the interview, an offer will be provided in due course.

Contact

If you require support with the application process please contact physics-pgr@kcl.ac.uk.