PhD Studentship: Bottom-up Decoding of Protein Conformational Landscapes: from Gas-phase to Solution

About The Project

Bottom-up Decoding of Protein Conformational Landscapes: from Gas-phase to Solution

Supervisor:
Prof. Scott Habershon, University of Warwick

Protein folding is a dynamic, complex process by which proteins traverse the free energy landscape, thus connecting the unfolded and the folded (native) state. Understanding protein folding mechanisms is a key route to better understanding misfolding-related diseases such as Alzheimer's - but predicting how proteins fold in biological environments remains a key unmet challenge.

About The Project

Bottom-up Decoding of Protein Conformational Landscapes: from Gas-phase to Solution

Supervisor:
Prof. Scott Habershon, University of Warwick

Protein folding is a dynamic, complex process by which proteins traverse the free energy landscape, thus connecting the unfolded and the folded (native) state. Understanding protein folding mechanisms is a key route to better understanding misfolding-related diseases such as Alzheimer's - but predicting how proteins fold in biological environments remains a key unmet challenge.

This project brings together insights from efficient graph-driven folding simulations with mass spectrometry experimental data, creating a unique multi-stranded methodology to map out free energy landscapes associated with protein folding in environments spanning gas-phase to microsolvation environment.

About Het Sys:
Harnessing Data, Modelling and Simulation for Real‑World Impact

Het Sys (Centre for Doctoral Training in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems) at the University of Warwick is an innovative, interdisciplinary fully funded PhD programme that brings together science, engineering, and mathematics to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

• Big Questions, Real Impact – From climate modelling and sustainable energy to advanced materials and biomedical systems, Het Sys projects apply cutting‑edge computational and mathematical techniques to problems with global significance.
• Interdisciplinary Training – Students gain expertise across physics, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics, developing versatile skills that open doors to both academia and industry.
• Collaborative Environment – Work alongside leading researchers and industry partners in a supportive, vibrant community that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
• Future‑Focused Careers – Het Sys graduates are equipped with highly sought‑after skills in modelling, simulation, and data science, preparing them for impactful careers in research, technology, and beyond.