PhD scholarship in computational biochemistry

PhD scholarship in computational biochemistry

We are looking for talented candidates for an international-level PhD degree in computational evolution of metal proteins at The Technical University of Denmark (DTU).

This new, international research project with collaborators at Stanford University involves the study of iron-containing proteins: Why did they evolve to their particular current structures, and how are these structures evolutionary optimized for protein functions?

Mapping the evolved structure-function principles of metalloproteins has far-reaching consequences, because metals are of such importance in all of biochemistry. Ultimately, the knowledge gained from computer simulations will be used to develop new tailored metal sites, cleaner and more effective catalysts for use in industry (green chemistry), and for the design of new, improved medicine. These research areas are very active and of growing future importance, because of the need to process increasingly complex information. The techniques play a dominant role in rational molecular design and will continue to grow in importance, both within academic research and within the private sector.

Qualifications
Candidates should have a master’s degree in engineering or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to the master’s degree in engineering. Skills within several of the following areas are relevant: Physical chemistry, computational biology / chemistry, mathematical modeling, bioinorganic chemistry, biophysics, quantum chemistry, computers/programming.

Approval and Enrolment

The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.

Salary and appointment terms

The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students (approximately € 3,500 / month). The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about our research on www.kpje.com. Or see: Jensen, K. P.; Bell, III, C. B.; Clay, M.; Solomon, E. I. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2009, 131, 12155-12171; Jensen, K. P. Computational-chemical evolution of metal sites, in: Encycl. Inorg. Bioinorg. Chem. 2009, in press; Jensen, K. P. Inorg. Chem. 2008, 47, 10357-10365.

Application

We must have your online application by 15 October 2009.

Apply for the position at www.dtu.dk/vacancy – Please open the link “apply for this job online” and fill in the application form and attach your application, CV and information about academic grades.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.