PhD student at ILL: studying Lipid Droplet-Dengue Virus Interactions by Neutron Scattering

The European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France, in collaboration with the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), offers a unique PhD opportunity to study the molecular mechanisms of dengue virus capsid protein binding to lipid droplet surfaces using advanced neutron scattering techniques. The project is based within the Large-Scale Structures group at ILL, one of the world's leading neutron science facilities, and leverages state-of-the-art small-angle neutron scattering (SANS/USANS) and neutron reflectometry instruments to probe molecular-scale structures at complex biological interfaces. The research aims to unravel how dengue virus capsid proteins interact with lipid droplets, a process central to viral replication and pathogenesis. By employing artificial lipid droplet models and Langmuir monolayers incorporating the LD-surface protein Plin3, the project will use contrast variation neutron techniques to directly observe protein-lipid interactions that are otherwise invisible to conventional probes. This work will provide mechanistic insights into dengue virus biology and inform future antiviral strategies. The PhD student will benefit from a rich interdisciplinary environment and collaborations with the University of Bristol (UK) for sample preparation, the University of Manchester (UK) for peptide synthesis, the Jerzy Haber Institute (Poland) for Plin3 expression, and the University of Galway (Ireland) for molecular dynamics simulations. The successful candidate will be enrolled in the doctoral school at the University of Bristol but will be based full-time at ILL in Grenoble, with short secondments to partner institutions for specialized training and research activities. Applicants should have a strong background in biophysics, chemistry, physics, or a closely related discipline. Experience with soft matter, protein-lipid interactions, or surface science is highly desirable, as is familiarity with neutron or X-ray scattering techniques, Langmuir monolayer methods, or structural biology. Programming skills for data analysis and strong laboratory skills are advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English (B2 level or higher) and comply with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions mobility rule. The position offers a varied pedagogical training programme over three years and the opportunity to work in a highly international and collaborative research environment. For further information, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Prof. D. Zákutná ([email protected]), Dr. S. Ayscough ([email protected]), or Prof. W. H. Briscoe ([email protected]). Applications should be submitted via the provided application link, including all required documents and proof of English proficiency.