PhD student project in biochemistry & biophysics - Allosteric modulators of Solute Carrier Transporters

A four-year PhD opportunity is available in the lab of Dr. Martens. The Martens group specializes in the structural and biochemical characterization of human and bacterial transporters, employing innovative mass spectrometry-based methods (e.g., Martens et al., Nat Commun, 2018,2020; Martens et al., Nat Protocols, 2019). Our research is particularly focused on understanding how transporter dynamics influence their function. This project will specifically investigate SLC22A2 (OCT2), a key player in the toxic accumulation of chemotherapeutics in the kidney. The aim is to understand how the functional dynamics of OCT2 can be modulated to mitigate nephrotoxicity.

**Your Role**

You will undertake a groundbreaking project focused on elucidating the mechanism of a kidney drug transporter from the Solute Carrier (SLC) family. Allosteric modulation of drug transporters is a promising and innovative approach to controlling drug bioavailability and reducing toxic side effects. However, the molecular mechanisms of SLCs are challenging to study under physiological conditions, which hampers efforts to modulate SLC-mediated drug transport. In this project, you will explore the relationship between function and dynamics of the SLC transporter by integrating advanced structural mass spectrometry with biochemical approaches. This work will provide the molecular foundation needed to identify and screen for specific allosteric modulators of SLCs.

**We Offer:**

- A tax-exempt stipend of approximately €2460/month.

- A stimulating workplace with various on-site services, including a medical center, sports facilities, subsidized campus restaurants, a cultural center, and childcare services.

- The Plaine campus of the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) is a green, vibrant research hub located in the heart of Brussels, offering the perks of a dynamic European city.

- For EU citizens and citizens from countries with a bilateral social security agreement with Belgium: coverage includes medical insurance, unemployment benefits, retirement pension, maternity leave, and child benefits.

- For non-EU citizens from countries without such an agreement: coverage includes medical insurance, maternity leave, and child benefits.

**Starting Date:** As soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Founded in 1834, the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) is a research university with several campuses located in the heart of the Belgian capital, giving researchers and a 24,000-strong student body every opportunity to embrace all the perks of a vibrant European city (see ulb.be).

You will join the Biochemistry and Structural Biology Research Unit within the Chemistry Department. This interdisciplinary unit consists of around twenty researchers and students with diverse backgrounds, including structural biologists, biophysicists, and microbiologists. We put a special emphasis on the investigation of the mechanisms by which membrane molecules (proteins and lipids) control membrane permeability and cellular functions. We provide a multidisciplinary training and research environment including cell biology, physiology, biochemistry, cell and molecular spectroscopy and biophysics. The research unit is well-equipped with a wide range of technologies for structural studies of proteins and has recognized expertise in advanced biophysical techniques, including structural resolution (X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM) and protein dynamics analysis (HDX-MS, DEER, smFRET). For more information about our work and recent publications, visit chloemartenslab.com.

• Applicants recently got a degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry or Biomedical Sciences
• Strong interest in the role of human transporters in health and disease.
• Self-motivated, proactive, curious and independent.
• Expertise in biophysical or biochemical methods to study protein structure is a plus
• The ability to work in a multidisciplinary team is a must.