PhD position in Pharmaceutical science
at the Department of Pharmacy.
Project: Interaction between amphiphilic peptides and complex biological membranes
The Department of Pharmacy offers a stimulating work environment in research and teaching in the Pharmacy disciplines. Our research and teaching programs focus on our core disciplines, i.e. biopharmaceutics, pharmaceutical formulation and technology, pharmaceutical physical chemistry, pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacoeconomy and pharmacy practice research. Information about the department and our research groups can be found on our web site http://www.farmfak..uu.se/farm/.
The position now opened is placed in the research group Pharmaceutical Physical Chemistry, the research of which aims at improved knowledge on tools and systems for efficient identification and administration of peptide and protein drugs. The research is interdisciplinary, including physical chemistry, biotechnology, and materials science, and is characterized by extensive scientific collaborations with research groups both in Sweden and internationally.
The PhD student will work within the project Interaction between amphiphilic peptides and complex biological membranes. Amphiphilic peptides have significant potential as drugs within a number of areas, e.g., as novel antibiotics or against inflammatory diseases. To contribute to this, the research group has a broad activity around such peptides, from identification of endogenous peptides and their subsequent optimization by modern biotechnological and biophysical tools and models, to different types of carrier systems for efficient and safe administration of these peptides. In regards to peptide identification and optimization, emphasis is placed on the mode of action of the peptides, as well as development and use of different model lipid membranes. Within the project, the interaction between amphiphilic peptides and complex lipid membranes will be investigated, including effects of (lipo)polysaccharides and (glyco)proteins on peptide and membrane properties and structure on membrane rupture, antimicrobial effect, and cell toxicity. The project is experimental in character, spanning from microbiology to physical chemistry, but includes also application of theoretical models for description and analysis of experimental results.
The holder of a PhD-student position shall primarily devote her/his time to own research studies. Other departmental work, such as educational or administrative can be part of position (max 20 %).
The applicant must be eligible for PhD studies. Priority is given to those who are deemed to show the greatest aptitude for a successful completion of graduate studies. The rules governing this process can be found in Higher Education Ordinance (Högskoleförordningen) 5 kap §§ 1-7. Local guidelines at Uppsala University determine the salary.
The application shall consist of CV, copies of exams and list of courses including the grades obtained, a copy of the Master thesis (or a draft thereof), as well as names of two persons that can be used as reference. More information can be obtained from Martin Malmsten, tel. +46-18-471 4334, martin..malmsten@farmaci.uu.se .. Union representatives are Anders Grundström, SACO-rådet, tel +46-18-471 53 80, Carin Söderhäll, OFR-S/ST, tel +4618-471 19 96, Stefan Djurström, SEKO, tel +46-18-471 33 15.
The application should be sent, preferrably by e-mail to:registrator@uu.se, or by fax +46-18 471 2000, or by mail to: Registrar's Office, Uppsala University, Box 256, SE-751 05 UPPSALA, Sweden. In any correspondence, please use the reference number UFV-PA 2009/2496.
Application deadline on 10 November, 2009. Examples of such documents are: a curriculum vitae, copies of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of the Master thesis (or a draft thereof), references, a short description of the applicant and his/her experience. Letter(s) of recommendation may also be included.