Determining RNA Structure and Stability within Nanoparticle Encapsulation using Integrative Cryo-OrbiSIMS and Computer Modelling at University of Nottingham

Principal supervisor: Dr Aditi Borkar, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science

Other supervisors: Prof Morgan Alexander, School of Pharmacy; Dr David Scurr, School of Pharmacy; Dr Naoto Hori, School of Pharmacy; Dr Toshana Foster, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science

Background: The School of Veterinary Medicine and Science (SVMS) undertakes research on key issues in fundamental science and in human and animal health. The student will be an active member of the Wolfson Centre for Global Virus Research and One Virology research cluster; ground-breaking interdisciplinary teams of researchers bringing together expertise in human and veterinary viruses to make new discoveries, broaden scientific understanding and pioneer novel approaches to challenging infections. The student will also be integrated with Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre and School of Pharmacy, UoN and would benefit from cross-institutional supervision and access to the state-of-art suite of biophysical instrumentation. 

Project description: RNAs are one of the most challenging systems to study via structural biology methods such as X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy or cryo-Electron Microscopy. To address this, we have recently integrated solid state mass spectroscopy experiments with computational modelling algorithms to determine the 3D structure of RNA at atomic resolution. 

In this project, the student will use this innovative method to unravel the molecular shapes of biologically relevant RNAs and determine how these shapes influence the packaging of the RNA into vaccine delivery systems and RNA virus virions. Thus, on one hand the project would enable deeper understanding of complex RNA structures and on the other hold immense potential for advancing the development of RNA nanomedicines such as mRNA vaccines and viral vectors. 

Further information and Application

A 1^st or 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline and/or second degree with a related Masters in biology, biochemistry or biophysics area. The successful candidate will have a background in molecular biology and biochemistry. A keen interest in structural biology is essential. 

Informal enquiries may be addressed to the principal supervisor: Dr Aditi Borkar (aditi.borkar@nottingham.ac.uk )

Candidates should apply online and include a CV.  When completing the online application form, please select the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, then PhD Veterinary Medicine and Science (36m) and, once submitted, send your student ID number to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.

Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.

Interview Date: 

27^th February 2024

Start Date: 

1^st April 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter

Closing date: 

12^th February 2024

Eligibility for Funding

This is a fully funded studentship open to UK nationals only. For Home student eligibility guidelines, please refer to the UKRI website