PhD Position in Physics of Synthetic Molecular Machines
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
3,200 – 4,100 / month
On-Site
Entry
Starts in 2-3 months
posted 3 days ago
Vacancy Summary
Join our international consortium focused on the physics of synthetic molecular motors. This PhD project will explore the mechanics of light-driven motors and their applications in advanced molecular machines using cutting-edge single-molecule techniques.
Required skills
PYTHON
Engage
Techniques
modeling
Chemistry
Instrumentation
Design
Experimental Research
Data Analysis
Motivation
Transport
English
Scientific Programming
Contact
Movement
Access
influence
Machines
Microscopy
Measurements
Motors
Cargo
Heller
Closing
Interviews
Performance
Optical Tweezers
Development
CV
Benefits
Nanoscience
ISAD(G)
Progress
Time
Fluorescence
English level
Fluent
Languages
English
We offer a PhD position dedicated to studying the physics of synthetic molecular motors and the machines they create as part of the international consortium ‘Joining Forces for Human-Made Molecular Machines’. Molecular motors are fascinating nanomachines that convert fuel into useful work and directed motion, overcoming the inherent random fluctuations of molecular building blocks. Recent advancements have introduced synthetic unidirectional rotary motors powered by light, which hold significant potential for actuating innovative molecular machines and materials. This project aims to utilize single-motor measurements to understand force generation and efficient movement along tracks, progressing from individual motors to collaborative molecular machines that transport cargo or execute specific tasks beyond biological limitations.
The Role
In this PhD project, you will investigate the physics of light-driven synthetic molecular motors and the transport machines constructed from them, employing advanced single-molecule techniques. You will develop and utilize single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and optical tweezers to quantify how rotary-motor-based walkers navigate DNA-based tracks. Additionally, you will explore the cooperative behavior of multiple motors, such as interlinked walkers or motors on surfaces, to perform specific tasks. Your experiments will focus on how motor-track design and coupled motor operation influence speed, processivity, and directionality, linking the thermodynamic performance of synthetic motors to molecular design principles in collaboration with theorists.
About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Website
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