[Expired] PhD position in Marseille: mechanistic studies of hydrogenases

Our group investigates the function and maturation of various metalloenzymes. This project is concerned with “FeFe hydrogenases”, which oxidize and produce H₂. They are studied in various contexts ranging from fundamental catalysis to the design of biofuel cells. We are interested in all steps in their catalytic mechanisms: long distance electron transfer, active site chemistry, reaction with inhibitors such as O₂, interaction with light. We seek to understand the molecular basis of some of the global properties of redox enzymes, including catalytic bias and resistance to chemical stress. We have developed new methodologies that make it possible to use electrochemistry for studying certain steps in the catalytic mechanism that may be difficult to probe using conventional techniques.

The PhD student will use direct electrochemistry and other kinetic methods to study various aspects of the reactivity of FeFe hydrogenases produced in our lab and by various collaborators. The project focuses on the molecular aspects of catalysis, using an interdisciplinary collaboration with biochemists/molecular biologists, spectroscopists and theoretical chemists.

The candidate will have a background in physical chemistry or biochemistry. They will speak english and will be interested in the pluridisciplinary approach that we develop.

The position is funded by A*MIDEX Foundation, and will start in september/october 2018.

To apply, please send to a CV and the contact details of two former advisors, by june 30th, 2018.

Bibliography

• M. del Barrio, M. Sensi, C. Orain, C. Baffert, S. Dementin, V. Fourmond and C. Leger, “Electrochemical investigations of hydrogenases and other enzymes that produce and use solar fuels” Acc. Chem. Res., 2018, 51 (3), pp 769–777 (2018). doi:10.1021/acs.accounts.7b00622
• M Sensi, M del Barrio, C Baffert, V Fourmond, C Leger “New perspectives in hydrogenase direct electrochemistry”, Current Opinion in Electrochemistry Volume 5, Issue 1, October 2017, Pages 135-145 (2017) doi:10.1016/j.coelec.2017.08.005
• http://bip.cnrs-mrs.fr/bip06/publications.html

Also published here https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/293685