A 3.5 year PhD studentship is available to work under the supervision of Professor Jochen Blumberger at the Condensed Matter and Materials Physics Laboratory, University College London, UK. The project involves the development and application of novel modelling tools, based on density functional theory and molecular dynamics, that will enhance our mechanistic understanding of electron transfer and transport through semiconducting biomolecules. Applications will focus on multi-heme proteins (MHCs), which have recently emerged as promising building blocks for bioelectronic devices, for signaling between living cells and for biological solar-to-fuel production. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with UK-based and international experimental partner laboratories and will aid the atomistic interpretation of ultra-fast optical pump-probe experiments and current-voltage measurements of MHCs in solution and bioelectronic junctions, respectively. Access to high performance computing facilities will be provided. Interested candidates may want to take a look at recent group publications in the field, listed on the group website http://www.blumberger.net.

Highly motivated students from Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science Departments are strongly
encouraged to apply for this post. Due to funding restrictions only UK or EU citizens are eligible to
apply. The candidate should have, or be about to receive, an honours degree (at least II.1 or
equivalent) in Physics, Chemistry or a related subject. Good knowledge in quantum mechanics and
statistical mechanics is expected and interest in writing computer code and shell scripts is an
advantage. Some experience with molecular simulation is desirable, but not essential. The studentship will cover all university fees and includes funds for maintenance at the standard EPSRC rate. The studentship will start 23. September 2019.

Applications should include (i) a motivation statement (250 words max) briefly describing any previous research projects you worked on and why you would like to apply for this post (ii) a CV (2 pages max) including publications (if any) (iii) transcripts of undergraduate (Bachelor) and graduate (Master) studies (iv) names, contact details and email addresses of 2 referees. Please send these four application documents as a single zip file to Jochen Blumberger, [email protected] specifying in the subject line “PhD application”. Candidates are advised to apply as early as possible as the selection process will commence immediately and continue until a suitable applicant is found. All applications received until 6. January 2019 will be considered.

Informal enquiries regarding the vacancy can be made to Jochen Blumberger, [email protected]. For any administrative queries regarding the application process, please contact James Gane, [email protected].