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Engineering Fibers of Intermediate filaments as Next Generation Sustainable Biomaterials

Funding
Funded
Study mode
Full-time
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Start date
Year round
Subject area
Engineering
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Overview

In this funded project, you'll develop model biomaterials with entirely new material properties using novel experimental methods, including advanced rheology and microrheology, to probe the mechanics of cell-free intermediate filaments.

About this opportunity

Intermediate filaments are a class of fascinating polymer-like protein found in mammalian cells that have remarkable mechanical properties.  These properties help cells to withstand high stress and fast deformations. Moreover, when isolated from cells, these filaments have low bending stiffness, the capacity to withstand substantial strains, and a can reorganization under mechanical stress.

In this interdisciplinary research project, you will develop model biomaterials with entirely new material properties. At the University of Liverpool, you will use novel experimental methods, namely advanced rheology and microrheology to probe the mechanics of cell-free intermediate filaments. Using these insights, you will develop new fibrous biomaterials with high toughness, strength, and extensibility, which can be efficiently produced through recombinant expression in bacteria. Working at National Tsing-Hua University in Taiwan (NTHU) you will evaluate how artificially induced post-translational modifications affect filament assembly and mechanics by using intermediate filaments derived from different cell types and tissues. You will also learn how to express and purify cytoskeletal proteins and construct artificial cytoskeletal networks with controllable structure, mechanics and chemistry.

You will work with a multidisciplinary team comprising biophysicists, engineers and biologists.  As part of the prestigious NTHU-Liverpool PhD programme you receive multidisciplinary training and carry out research at both institutions, providing excellent training and career development opportunities.

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Who is this for?

This project is open to UK and international applicants. Candidates will have, or be due to obtain, a master’s degree or equivalent in in Natural Sciences, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related disciplines such as biochemical engineering or biophysics.

We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply. This PhD project will develop your skills and training in biophysics and chemical biology.

We want all of our staff and students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances.

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How to apply

  1. 1. Contact supervisors

  2. 2. Prepare your application documents

    You may need the following documents to complete your online application:

    • A research proposal (this should cover the research you’d like to undertake)
    • University transcripts and degree certificates to date
    • Passport details (international applicants only)
    • English language certificates (international applicants only)
    • A personal statement
    • A curriculum vitae (CV)
    • Contact details for two proposed supervisors
    • Names and contact details of two referees.
  3. 3. Apply

    Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

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Funding your PhD

This funded studentship will cover tuition fees and pay a maintenance grant similar to a UKRI studentship (£20,780/year) for 2 years at while in Liverpool and 15000 NDT/month while in Taiwan for 2 years.  The studentship also come with additional financial support of a research training support grant which will fund the cost of materials, conference attendance etc. If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result.
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Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

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