Many biological reactions require electron transfer catalysed by proteins containing metallic centres and/or organic co-factors. During the catalytic cycle, these proteins alternate between ‘resting’ and ‘activated’ states through modification of their active centres.
To understand these catalytic cycles, we need to combine X-ray crystallography, which describes the atomic structure, to UV-vis spectroscopy, measuring the electronic properties of the system in the various states.
At Diamond, we recently integrated a commercial micro-spectrophotometer within the X-ray diffraction beamline I04. We now need to optimize the procedures for data collection synchronizing the two devices, so that we can trigger a reaction and monitor changes in atomic structure and spectroscopic properties with time.
Objectives of this placement would be to help us optimize the production of crystals from selected scientific projects and measure spectra of the protein ‘resting’ states together with the 3D atomic structure. At a later stage, the student will explore how to trigger reactions on these crystals by addition of specific ligands or stimulation with light. Finally, the same stimuli will be applied to protein crystals while monitoring their spectroscopic and structural properties. This will provide snapshots of the reaction mechanism and help designing better biological catalysts or understanding dynamics within protein active sites.
Applications are now closed for this project.
Please apply via our online application portal. The vacancy that you are applying for is the "Summer Placements 2023" listing, you will then have the opportunity to select up to three projects to apply for. This project's reference is 23004SP.
Interviews will be scheduled for 6, 7, 8, and 9 February 2023.
If you are disabled and would like to be considered under the Disability Confident Scheme, please let us know via the online application process.
Please note that this role does not meet the required skill level for a Skilled Worker visa and therefore we would be unable to sponsor individuals due to the current UK Home Office immigration rules. To be appointed to the role, candidates will need to have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship from us.
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