PhD Studentship: The molecular mechanisms behind G-protein coupled receptor dimerization



Deadline: 20 January 2014.

Start Date: October 2014.

Supervisory Team: Dr Peter J. McCormick, Email: p.mccormick@uea.ac.uk

The Project:

One of the most important questions in biology is to understand how cells sense their environment. The G-protein coupled receptor (GPCRs) superfamily has been shown to be a major player in helping cells accomplish this. Recent structural data show that GPCRs have different ligand-modulated signalling states, and that higher order oligomers are important for activity, suggesting that GPCRs are not single on/off switches. Instead, the current hypothesis is that GPCRs operate in a complex array of homo- and heteromers tuned to their cellular environment. The most controversial aspect of GPCR function is how members of different families of GPCRs interact with each other to form so called heteromers. The overall objective of this project focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of how GPCR heteromers function within these receptor arrays to help cells sense their environment.

Entry Requirements:

First degree (2.1) in Biochemistry.

Funding:

This three year funded studentship is funded by the University and due to funding restrictions is open to UK/EU candidates.

An annual stipend of £13,726 is available to the successful candidate.

Making Your Application:

Please apply via the University’s online application system, via the ‘Apply’ button below.

NB Applications are processed as soon as they are received, so early application is encouraged.

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To discuss the application process or particular projects, please contact the: Admissions Office, email: pgr.enquiries.admiss@uea.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)1603 591709. 

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