Biophysical characterisation and design of optogenetic control elements

The project involves the biophysical characterisation of a recently developed optogenetic control system, based on a natural coenzyme-B12 dependent protein. It falls within the remit of 'technologies and methodological development', 'synthetic biology', and more generally 'world class bioscience' and is firmly embedded at the interface of chemistry, biology and physics, a key driver for BBSRC in the 'Exploiting new ways of working' agenda. It draws on the core bioscience skills of mathematics (data analysis), and provides advanced research training in recombinant protein production and biophysical characterisation using a range of solution spectroscopy and mass spectrometry techniques. Overall, the work will provide a highly interdisciplinary approach to (bio)chemistry/ biophysics-based research, offering highly diverse training opportunities to a PhD student. The Manchester-based supervisors have long-established collaborations with the industrial partner at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the student will have the additional benefit of being able to access the local supervisors' laboratories on a daily basis, as they are co-located within the same building (MIB).