PhD in Aquaporin – Are you looking to build a career in structural biology, molecular biophysics, or membrane protein research? 🎓 Aston University in Birmingham, UK, is inviting applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD project focused on “Delineating stages of Aquaporin Biogenesis”. This exciting opportunity is offered by the world-renowned Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) and is open to students worldwide.

📅 Application Deadline: September 1, 2025
🌍 Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
💼 Funding: Full tuition + £20,780 annual stipend + travel & consumables budget
🔬 Fields: Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Structural Biology, Polymer Chemistry

🔬 What Is This Project About?

Aquaporins (AQPs) are vital water channel proteins responsible for transporting water across cell membranes. These membrane proteins are essential in maintaining water homeostasis in various tissues, and misfolding of these proteins can result in severe human diseases such as:

• 🧠 Chronic brain edema (AQP4)
• 🩸 Pulmonary arterial hypertension (AQP1)
• 🚽 Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (AQP2)

Despite their biological significance, little is known about how AQPs fold and insert into the membrane during synthesis, especially in human cells. This PhD project aims to uncover the cotranslational folding pathways of AQP proteins and identify the cellular and molecular factors that influence successful membrane integration versus misfolding.

🧠 Why This Research Matters

Understanding AQP biogenesis can:

• 💊 Lead to targeted drug development for AQP-related diseases.
• 🧪 Offer insights into membrane protein folding and ER quality control mechanisms.
• 🌐 Enhance therapeutic strategies using structure-based design.

🧪 Project Highlights

As part of this interdisciplinary and cutting-edge research at AIME, you will:

• Compare folding pathways of AQP1 and AQP4, which follow distinct trajectories.
• Investigate the impact of pathogenic mutations on protein stability and trafficking.
• Study how lipid composition at the ER affects AQP folding.
• Understand how translation machinery and chaperones assist or hinder proper AQP integration.
• Use ribosome-bound nascent chain complexes (RNCs) and advanced copolymer technologies to preserve native lipid-protein environments.
• Get a PhD in Aquaporin

🧰 Techniques & Tools You Will Use

• Protein purification and ribosome complex isolation
• Cell-free translation systems
• Lipidomic and proteomic analysis
• Gel-shift assays, FRET, limited proteolysis
• Advanced imaging and cell culture
• CryoEM & structural mass spectrometry (in collaboration)

📚 Recommended Readings (Key References) for PhD in Aquaporin

1. Pellowe et al., 10.1101/2024.09.19.613857
2. Kitchen et al., Cell, 10.1016/j.cell.2020.03.037
3. Passchier et al., Brain, 10.1093/brain/awad146
4. Pellowe et al., Biochemistry, 10.1021/acs.biochem.0c00423
5. Lu et al., doi.org/10.1091/mbc.11.9.2973

🎯 Ideal Candidate Profile

🎓 Academic Background:

• First-class or upper-second-class Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, biophysics, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree is preferred but not mandatory.
• International degrees must be equivalent as per Aston University guidelines.

💡 Skills & Qualities:

• Passion for membrane biology and structural biochemistry
• Previous research experience (desirable)
• Strong written and analytical skills
• Keen interest in interdisciplinary research

🌈 Diversity & Inclusion:

AIME strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups, particularly female scientists, and provides:

• ✅ Flexible working environment
• ✅ Strong mentorship
• ✅ Opportunities for international secondments

📄 How to Apply

To be considered for PhD in Aquaporin, submit a complete application including the following:

1. ✅ Transcripts & certificates (in English)
2. ✅ Research Statement
   • Discuss your understanding of aquaporin biogenesis
   • Suggest how you would approach the project
   • Include a short literature review
3. ✅ Personal Statement
   • Outline your motivation, research suitability, and career goals
4. ✅ Two academic references
   • At least one from your most recent university
   • Dated within the last two years
5. ✅ Proof of English Language Proficiency
6. ✅ Copy of Passport or UK residency proof (if applicable)

📧 For project-related queries, contact:
Dr. Grant Pellowe – g.pellowe@aston.ac.uk
📧 Application process questions: pgr_admissions@aston.ac.uk

📅 Application Link: Click here

💵 Funding and Benefits

This PhD project is fully funded for four years, covering:

• 🎓 Full tuition fees
• 💷 Tax-free annual stipend: £20,780
• ✈️ Travel & conference budget
• 🔬 Generous consumables budget

🎤 Interview Format

If shortlisted, interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams. Be prepared to discuss:

• Your background and qualifications
• Understanding of the project
• Research interests and future plans

🏛️ Why Choose Aston University & AIME?

Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, Aston University is known for its innovation, inclusivity, and interdisciplinary excellence.

The Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) is the world’s first integrated center combining polymer chemistry and membrane protein biology, setting a new benchmark in biomedical and biophysical research.

You’ll be joining a diverse, supportive, and internationally engaged lab working on one of the most crucial topics in cellular biology.

📌 Summary: Quick Facts

🚀 Final Words

If you’re ready to tackle membrane protein misfolding, contribute to lifesaving discoveries, and grow within a dynamic, inclusive, and innovative environment — this opportunity is for you!

🔗 Apply Today:
Visit the official project listing or contact pgr_admissions@aston.ac.uk for submission details.

Stay tuned with Scholarships with Aakash — Where Your Academic Dreams Take Flight.

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