PhD Position in Lipid Membranes: The Department of Chemistry at KU Leuven invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on constructing DNA-based artificial nanomachines within lipid membranes. This project, part of the ERC-funded MembraneMachines initiative, aims to explore the integration of nanotechnology and synthetic biology for innovative biological machinery design.
PhD Position in DNA-Based Artificial Nanomachines in Lipid Membranes
Designation
PhD Candidate (ref. BAP-2025-236)
Research Area
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nanotechnology
- Membrane Biophysics
Location
KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, or a related discipline
- Strong interest in nanotechnology, synthetic biology, and/or membrane biophysics
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English
- Collaborative and curious mindset
- Experience in biological or solid-state nanopores, DNA nanotechnology, single-molecule microscopy, or programming/data analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB) is a strong plus but not strictly required
Description
The successful candidate will lead the design and construction of next-generation DNA-based nanoscale motors, particularly translational motors embedded in lipid bilayers. Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and folding DNA nanostructures
- Working with lipid bilayers and liposomes
- Using single-channel electrophysiology to manipulate and control the motors
- Investigating interactions with lipid bilayers and vesicles
- Observing motor motion and evaluating performance with single-molecule localisation fluorescence microscopy
This fully funded PhD position is part of a 4-year project, initially offered for one year with an extension upon positive evaluation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the online application tool available on the KU Leuven website. For more information, contact Prof. Dr. Xin Shi at xin.shi@kuleuven.be or +32 16 37 72 85.
Last Date for Apply
May 31, 2025, at 23:59 CET
For any additional inquiries about the application process, inclusivity policies, or working conditions, please refer to the KU Leuven official resources or FAQs.
