PhD fellowship in Structural Biology of Viral Replication at Biotech Research and Innovation Centre - #397014

The research group of Eva Kummer is looking for an excellent and highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how pathogenic viruses replicate their genome using functional biochemistry and single-particle cryo-EM. As a PhD candidate, you will have the opportunity to work on an interesting and challenging project that will profit from your enthusiasm and willingness to learn and implement new methodology. 

Kummer group is part of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, which promotes basic and applied research. We are equipped with state-of-the-art cell culture, protein purification and characterization instrumentation. Moreover, we have access to sample preparation equipment and electron microscopes at the Core Facility for Integrated Microscopy at the University of Copenhagen including Leica GP2 and Vitrobot Mark IV vitrification devices, as well as Glacios and Krios TEM. Taken together, your project will profit from excellent infrastructure, and you will join a competitive, collaborative, and international work environment.

The fully funded 3-year PhD fellowship is scheduled to start 01 September 2024 or as soon as possible hereafter.

Responsibilities

You will investigate the structure and function of macromolecular complexes that drive viral replication using in vitro reconstitution and single particle cryo-EM. We are interested to study prevalent viral pathogens with no or limited options for cure. A major caveat in developing anti-viral compounds is a lack of structural information of the viral replication system. Our mission is to generate these structural insights. In this project, you will recombinantly purify viral replication proteins, reconstitute viral replication complexes in the test tube, and study their structure and function by single particle cryo-EM and functional biochemical assays.

Your key tasks as a PhD student are:

• Carrying through an independent research project under supervision.
• Completing PhD courses or other equivalent education corresponding to approximately 30 ECTS points.
• Participating in active research environments including a stay at another research team.
• Teaching and disseminating your knowledge.
• Writing a PhD thesis on the grounds of your project

Qualifications

We are looking for an excellent and highly motivated candidate with strong team player skills. As an applicant you must have: 

• Obtained (or expect to have obtained) a Master’s degree (equivalent to a Danish Master’s degree) in Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics or related areas prior to the starting date 
• Fluency in English and excellent written and oral communication skills

Other important criteria that will be evaluated are:

• The grade point average achieved
• Professional qualifications and work experience relevant to the PhD project
• Other professional activities

We are especially interested in candidates with previous experience in protein purification and electron microscopy or other structural techniques, although all necessary training will be provided to help you succeed.