The position is part of the project “Combined optical single molecule and atomic force microscopy to elucidate enzyme-induced collagen degradation kinetics” funded by the Vienna Science and Technology Fund (WWTF). Here, we want to observe in real-time the spatiotemporal changes upon collagen fibril degradation by combining single molecule fluorescence microscopy (SMFM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) microscopy. The PhD student shall focus on developing SMFM protocols for tracking single enzyme molecules on collagen fibril substrates. She/he will work in a team with a second PhD student, who will develop AFM experimental protocols to observe and quantify the enzyme activity on the morphological and mechanical properties of collagen fibrils. The two students will eventually combine their experimental techniques to simultaneously track and observe the phenomena and changes during collagen fibril degradation.

We offer:

• A 3-years PhD contract
• Competitive salary with all social benefits of a regular employment according to the regulations of the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) (currently 2,205.00 per month, 14x annual installments). Envisaged starting date: flexible
• High quality international scientific environment and stimulating/interdisciplinary research
  

Requirements:

•     Masters degree in (Bio-)Chemistry, (Bio-)Physics or a related area
•     High level of English and good communication skills
•     Multidisciplinary qualifications, knowledge of fluorescence microscopy are desirable.

Interested applicants should send their CV (including scientific background, training and expertise, research interest, motivation for joining the project, copies of academic certificates, publication list and two references) to schuetz@iap.tuwien.ac.at.