School of Biosciences

Applications are invited for a PhD studentship funded by KESS (Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarship) to work with Jim Murray and Dafydd Jones (Cardiff School of Biosciences). Please note applications will be considered upon receipt. 

Firefly luciferase is a key enzyme used in diagnostic assays, including hygiene monitoring for bacterial contamination. Such a test is marketed by the industrial partner 3M, and uses a simple swab sample used with a handheld luminometer device to measure the light output generated by luciferase from the ATP released from any bacteria in the sample. This project aims to apply targeted and random protein engineering approaches to improve the function and stability of luciferase in such assays.  The luciferase gene will be mutagenised in E. coli and the characteristics of the resulting enzymes established. Mutations will then be combined to generate further improved proteins, which will be assessed for their functionality for improving hygiene assays. The successful candidate will join a lively and diverse research group under Prof Jim Murray in the School of Biosciences occupying newly equipped labs in central Cardiff, and will also spend time with the collaborating company 3M, a global technology business. The candidate will gain experience in protein purification and biochemistry, mutagenesis and molecular biology techniques, amongst others. A background in biochemistry or molecular biology is essential and candidates with a Masters degree or previous laboratory work experience will be preferred.

This project is supported by 3M (Bridgend) and will involve work placements and supervisory support with this partner. This project is due to start in October 2011.

Funding:  

The succesful applicant will recieve the full UK/EU tuition fees plus a stipend of £14,099 (for 2011/12, increasing each year)

Each KESS project includes a budget of circa £5,000 per year to cover project expenses, consumables, small equipment, travel, and training.  Expenditure is authorised by supervisors.

 Candidates must meet the following criteria;

1. Have a home or work address in a Convergence area of Wales (CAW)* at the time of their application to the University;
2. Have the right to take up paid work in the Convergence area of Wales* on completion of the scholarship;
3. Be classified by the University as ‘home’ or ‘EU’ according to the University’s guidelines.

*The Convergence area of Wales covers West Wales and the Valleys made up of 15 local authorities: Isle of Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen.

KESS award holders are also required to participate in other skills training undertaken as part of the KESS project relating to attainment of a KESS Postgraduate Skills Award. This will include a 3-day GRAD-School and other needs-based training courses.

Candidates should satisfy Cardiff University's admissions criteria (as outlined in the Code of Practice for Research Degrees) - applicants for research PhDs are normally expected to have one or both of the following:
• a first degree, normally with class 2:1 or equivalent in a relevant subject;
• a relevant Master's qualification or equivalent.

Informal enquiries about the project : Prof Jim Murray (MurrayJA1@cf.ac.uk)

Applicants for KESS funding should hold an offer of PhD place at Cardiff University.
A CV and Covering Letter should be sent to ' MurrayJA1@cardiff.ac.uk ' followed by a standard application for postgraduate study. Applications for PhD study at Cardiff can be made online at: 
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/regis/general/applyonline/biosipgr.html

Further details on KESS and application forms for KESS funding can be found at:
http://www.cf.ac.uk/racdv/expertise/kess/vacancies.html