Exciting PhD Opportunity in Plant Science at Umeå University
Are you passionate about unraveling the mysteries of photosynthesis and contributing to cutting-edge research in plant science? Umeå University invites applications for a PhD position focused on the molecular mechanisms of photosynthetic water oxidation.
About the Project:
This doctoral research aims to delve into the intricate processes of photosynthetic water oxidation to O₂, emphasizing the role of protein-water-cofactor interactions and substrate water binding at the catalytic site. The study will employ advanced biophysical techniques, including time-resolved membrane inlet mass spectrometry, fluorescence and EPR spectroscopies, molecular biology, cryo-electron microscopy, and snapshot serial crystallography with x-ray free electron lasers. The project may also incorporate theoretical calculations.
Why Join Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC)?
UPSC stands as one of Europe’s premier research environments for basic plant research, encompassing diverse disciplines such as ecology, computational biology, genetics, physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology. As a PhD student, you’ll be part of a collaborative and international research team, gaining access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and training.
Position Details:
- Start Date: October 1, 2025 (or as agreed)
- Duration: Temporary position, full-time
- Location: Umeå, Sweden
- Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
Eligibility Criteria:
- A completed degree at the second-cycle level or equivalent qualifications.
- At least 240 ECTS credits, including 60 ECTS at the second-cycle level.
- A minimum of 90 ECTS credits relevant to the doctoral thesis project, with at least 30 ECTS in a subject closely related to the research topic.
Desired Qualifications:
Applicants should have an academic background in Plant or Structural Biology, Chemistry, (Bio)physics, or a related field, with a keen interest in the molecular details of enzyme catalysis and photosynthetic processes.
For more information and to apply, please visit: Click here.