MSc by Research: Functional mechanisms and inhibition of biomedically important calcium channels

Ion channels are key components in every cell, bridging cell and organellar membranes for the traversal of charged species. Calcium channels are of particular physiological importance because of the central role calcium plays in cell signalling and cell death. They are also essential for the replication and maturation of viruses in host cells. For these reasons, many drugs and drug candidates target calcium channels.   

A better understanding of the function of calcium channels is needed to underpin the design of safe, efficient drugs. In this project, you will investigate the mechanisms of biomedically important calcium channels by a combination of molecular modelling, biomolecular simulations, and ligand docking. A special focus will be placed on therapeutics that may inhibit the flow of ions through the channel. You will acquire training in computational biology and computational chemistry techniques as well as data analysis and predicting molecular properties including by machine learning. The results of your work will inform drug design programmes in both academia and industry.   

 Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

Please see our website for further details on the programme:

Life Sciences MSc by Research MSc by Research (Postgraduate) : Study : University of Dundee

Please note before submitting your application that you must list your top three project choices in the Research Proposal section of the application form.

You apply for this course using our Direct Application System. Once you’ve signed up for an account you’ll be asked to search for a course.

https://www.dundee.ac.uk/study/pgr/research-areas/life-sciences/

To find Life Science MSc by Research you should select the following options:

· Course type: Research Postgraduate

· Keyword: Life

When you complete your form, you should include your top 3 project choices, 2 letters of reference, uploaded under “Other Information” > “Supporting documents” and a personal statement. Failure to do so will delay your application.

Please note when submitting an application, please note our intake deadlines on the ‘how to apply’ section of our website