What scientific question will you investigate?

Bacteria are surrounded by a net-like cell wall that gives them shape and structural strength. If the cell wall is not built properly, bacteria burst and die, so the process must be controlled with nanoscale precision by dedicated multi-protein machines. Until recently, we have lacked the tools to resolve how this process is spatially organized. However, we can now use super-resolution microscopy to image the proteins and cellular structures involved in this process at 10-20 nm resolution directly in cells.

During your PhD you will push the limits of super-resolution microscopy by optimized microscope construction, sample preparation and quantitative data analysis. You will build an ultra-stable custom super-resolution microscope and develop microfluidics-based tools for multicolour 3D imaging of bacterial proteins at maximal resolution.

You will use these tools to reveal the in vivo organization of the proteins responsible for building the bacterial cell wall in unprecedented detail, with a particular focus on the bacterial cell division machinery. Ultimately, this work will give new insight into the basic principles governing the organization of the smallest living organisms, as well as developing broadly useful super-resolution microscopy tools.

What training will you receive?

You will receive expert training in super-resolution microscopy, microscope development, quantitative image analysis, microbiology and bacterial physiology.

About our lab

Our interdisciplinary lab investigates fundamental principles of bacterial spatial organization. To achieve this we develop novel experimental methods based on single molecule & super-resolution microscopy, microfabrication and microfluidics. E.g.: Science 355 739-743 (2017), PNAS 111 4566-4571 (2014), eLife e18647 (2016).

Is this project right for you?

We are seeking someone with a strong interest in fusing cutting edge microscopy with quantitative biology. You must have, or expect to achieve, a good degree (BSc/MSci 2:1 or above, MSc/ MRes beneficial) in a relevant field. The award is available to UK/ EU applicants only.

Name of supervisor

Dr Seamus Holden, Centre for Bacterial Cell Biology, Newcastle University

Value of award

100% of UK/EU tuition fees paid and annual living expenses of £14,777.

Start date and duration

24 September 2018 for 3 years.

Application closing date

This position is only available until a suitable candidate is found.