PhD studentship in experimental biophysics and charge transfer systems

PhD start date: 1st October 2025

Application deadline: Thursday 31st October 2024

Application process: Click here to apply.

Application requirements: We usually ask for a first-class or upper second class (2:1) MChem or MSc degree, or equivalent experience, in chemistry, chemical physics, chemical engineering, materials, or a relevant biological science.

Project Details:

Nature relies on various charge transfer pathways that are at the heart of our existence, such as in the notable examples of plant photosynthesis and our aerobic respiration system. In such systems, electrons, protons (and energy) are transferred via proteins situated within biological membranes.

Applicants are invited to apply for a PhD studentship under the guidance of Prof. Nadav Amdursky at the University of Sheffield (Chemistry). The Amdursky group is known for the development of new methodologies for investigating various charge transfer processes in different biological and bioinspired systems. Our main focus is proton transfer, but we also study electron transfer and energy transfer.

The project of this PhD studentship will focus on deciphering proton transfer processes involving biological membranes, proteins, and peptides, as well as ways to manipulate bio-related dynamic processes via proton transfer. 

The methodological tools to be learned during the PhD studentship are highly diverse and will involve ultrafast spectroscopy, bio-protonic electrical devices, various surface characterizations, some synthesis, various spectroscopies, and device fabrication.

The Amdursky group is highly interdisciplinary, and applicants who are interested in biophysics / physical chemistry with various backgrounds, including Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, and Biological sciences are welcome to apply. The specific research questions to be answered during the PhD studentship will be tailored in accordance with the relevant background of the student and the student’s interests.

If you would like to find out more about this project, please contact [email protected]

Please note that this project is only available to students with a ‘home’ fees status.