PhD Position in Lipid Membranes: A fully funded PhD position is available in the Department of Chemistry, division of Biochemistry, Molecular and Structural Biology, at KU Leuven. This research will focus on the design and construction of DNA-based nanoscale motors within lipid membranes as part of the ERC-funded project MembraneMachines.
PhD Position in DNA-Based Artificial Nanomachines in Lipid Membranes
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Nanotechnology
- Synthetic Biology
- Membrane Biophysics
Location
KU 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 with 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.
Job Description
The successful candidate will lead the design and construction of DNA-based nanoscale motors (translational motors) embedded in lipid bilayers. Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and folding DNA nanostructures.
- Working with lipid bilayers and liposomes.
- Utilizing single-channel electrophysiology to manipulate and control the motors.
- Investigating interactions with lipid bilayers and vesicles.
- Observing motor motion and evaluating performance using single-molecule localisation fluorescence microscopy.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply via the online application tool on the KU Leuven website by providing the necessary documents as specified. For additional information or inquiries about the position, please contact Prof. Dr. Xin Shi at:
- Tel: +32 16 37 72 85
- Email: xin.shi@kuleuven.be
Last Date to Apply
May 31, 2025, at 23:59 CET.
