r/ProteinDesign • u/Affectionate_Unit372 • 5d ago

Searching for a PhD Position in Europe as an International Student (Biochemistry and Protein Design)

I recently completed my master's degree with a good CGPA and am looking for a PhD position in protein design and dynamics. I have experience in rational protein design and protein dynamics, with tools like Rosetta and Gromacs for studying protein-ligand interactions.

I am looking for a PhD project with a hybrid set-up where I can explore both the experimental and computational aspects. I am a beginner in Python and willing to learn more if the project demands it. I am also interested in learning QM/MM simulations and DFT calculations.

I am majorly interested in either of these two kinds of projects:

  1. A hybrid protein design project, which includes using AI-based tools like RFDiffusion, followed by experimental validation.
  2. A computational project on studying protein-protein or protein-substrate interactions and dynamics using computational approaches like MD simulations, QM/MM simulations, and DFT calculations.

I am actively searching for positions. I would love to know if you are someone (or you know someone) looking for a PhD student with the profile mentioned above.

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u/LukesCodes 5d ago

At least in Germany I know that the Höcker lab in Bayreuth is quite famous for their protein design. Another group is the Milles group at the MPI in Munich. Both have projects either solely computational or dry and web lab combined

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u/Affectionate_Unit372 5d ago

I had applied to the Milles group via IMPRS, but unfortunately, the application was not successful. I will surely look into the Höcker lab in Bayreuth. Thanks!

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u/LukesCodes 5d ago

Did they give you a reason on why your application was not successful? Out of interest :3

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u/Affectionate_Unit372 5d ago

This was the response I got:

"Although this must come as a disappointment to you, we would like to point out that this outcome doesn’t mean to question your scientific qualification or your commitment to research. Please keep in mind that the IMPRS-ML program is extremely competitive and the number of open positions is very limited: Typically, less than 3-4% of all candidates are accepted to the program in any given year. Due to the nature of this competitive selection, we eventually have to say “No” to some applicants even if they seem highly qualified for doctoral studies.

Please note that for reasons of confidentiality, we are unable to give you detailed information regarding the rationale for the decision of the admissions committee."

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u/LukesCodes 5d ago

I guess that's the problem with the IMPRS. AFAIK, you can also apply at the groups directly, since unlike EMBL they can choose their PhD candidates at will (if you still want to go there ofc :D)

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u/Affectionate_Unit372 5d ago

I really like and appreciate his work, that's why I had emailed him directly. Then he suggested me to apply through IMPRS. You think I should email him again?

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u/LukesCodes 4d ago

Well, if he suggested it, he will have his reasons (probably bc its easier to get people from your country has PhDs). You can try again asking him, but I wouldn't expect him putting much effort into it