PhD Scholarship: Biosynthesis: Join a groundbreaking PhD project focusing on modeling the mechanisms of terpene biosynthesis using deep learning techniques. This research, supervised by Dr. Tomáš Pluskal at IOCB Prague, offers a unique opportunity to delve into bioinformatics and the biochemistry of plant specialized metabolites. The project is part of the European MSCA Doctoral Network ‘ModBioTerp’ and includes a comprehensive stipend and benefits package.
PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Modeling Terpene Biosynthesis with Deep Learning
Summary Table:
| Designation | PhD Student |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Bioinformatics, Biochemistry |
| Location | IOCB Prague, Czech Republic |
| Eligibility/Qualification | Master’s degree in relevant field, MSCA Mobility Rule compliance |
| Stipend | EUR 2,690 living allowance, EUR 600 mobility allowance, EUR 660 family allowance (if applicable) |
| Application Deadline | Until position filled |
| Contact Email | tomas.pluskal@uochb.cas.cz |
Designation: PhD Student
Research Area: Bioinformatics, Biochemistry of Plant Specialized Metabolites
Location: IOCB Prague, Czech Republic
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, or a related field.
- Must comply with the MSCA Mobility Rule: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the Czech Republic for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date.
- Students from Czech universities are not eligible.
Job Description: The project aims to use deep learning to predict enzyme activity from amino acid sequences, focusing on terpene synthases, which are critical for producing a vast array of medically and industrially significant plant metabolites. Key responsibilities include:
- Assembling a training dataset.
- Designing and implementing deep learning models.
- Analyzing and predicting enzyme substrates, products, and reaction mechanisms.
- Collaborating with supervisors and international partners.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should contact Dr. Tomáš Pluskal directly at tomas.pluskal@uochb.cas.cz to express their interest and get further information on the application process.
Last Date for Apply: Until position filled
Benefits:
- 5 weeks of vacation + 4 days of personal leave
- Health insurance and full benefits package, including pension, cultural, and sports contributions
- Lunch subsidy
- Financial support for parents returning to work post maternity/parental leave
- Additional IOCB employee benefits
References:
- Samusevich R, et al. Highly accurate discovery of terpene synthases powered by machine learning reveals functional terpene cyclization in Archaea. bioRxiv (2024).
- Christianson, D. W. Structural and Chemical Biology of Terpenoid Cyclases. Chem. Rev. (2017).
- Vattekkatte, A., et al. Enhanced structural diversity in terpenoid biosynthesis: enzymes, substrates, and cofactors. Org. Biomol. Chem. (2018).
University Partners:
- Faculty of Chemical Technology
- University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague
Additional Information:
- Expected Starting Date: 1 January 2025
For further inquiries and to apply, please reach out to the supervisor: tomas.pluskal@uochb.cas.cz. Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your career in a cutting-edge research project at the intersection of bioinformatics and biochemistry.
