Bioelectrochemical Studies of Respiratory Membrane Proteins

This project addresses fundamental questions related to electron and proton transfer mechanisms in bacterial respiratory membrane proteins, with a particular focus on oxygen reduction. The successful candidate will combine bioelectrochemistry and advanced spectroscopy to investigate catalytic processes at the molecular level. State-of-the-art approaches will be employed, including protein film voltammetry (PFV) on enzymes reconstituted in nanodiscs, enabling controlled studies in a native-like membrane environment. The project includes the development of new electrochemical assays, the study of lipid–protein interactions, and the analysis of quinone binding sites. Complementary FTIR and Raman spectroscopy will provide detailed insights into protonation states and structural dynamics.

The PhD will be carried out within the Bioelectrochemistry and Spectroscopy Group at the Complex Matter Chemistry Institute (UMR 7140), University of Strasbourg, located on the University’s central campus and embedded in a leading European research environment.

The project will be conducted within a highly collaborative international network involving three French universities, providing access to a broad range of complementary expertise, research facilities, and advanced instrumentation.

We are seeking a highly motivated, curious, and autonomous candidate with a strong background in physical chemistry, biophysics, or bioelectrochemistry.

Experience or interest in spectroscopy, electrochemistry, nanotechnologies will be highly valued.

The candidate should demonstrate strong analytical skills, enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, and a good command of English.