Biomolecular Structures and Interactions

Life on the scale of biological molecules is a mesmerizing interplay of well-defined structures and highly dynamic motions challenging todays researchers to understand the molecular details of biology. This intrinsic complexity provides unique opportunities, which we aim to address in our educational program. Structural biology plays a central role in biomedical research. It has helped to decipher fundamental macromolecular structures that underlie (patho)physiological processes. The last few years have led to a paradigm shift in the field from delineating biological functions from static structures only, to the need to include molecular dynamics for a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms. In BioMolStruct we assemble a unique group of researchers from three Universities in Graz. Our program will spearhead the growing demand for scientists in integrative structural bio logy with a solid experimental and theoretical background in molecular biology, biophysics, and structural biology. The program sustains specialized education with deep knowledge in integrative structural biology of dynamic biomolecules and a broad methodological portfolio to address them. To tackle the major challenge of combining complementary structural biology techniques in an integrative approach into one training program, BioMolStruct offers highly competitive thesis projects covering basic research embedded in (patho)physiological contexts. All three participating universities support BioMolStruct, from cutting-edge research infrastructure to integration into the institution`s regular activities. Moreover, all universities provide additional own funds for ongoing operations, institutional anchoring of the program as well as substantial, direct financial support. The young researchers of BioMolStruct will study biomolecules and biomolecular complexes playing essential roles in cellular signaling and metabolism, with a focus on proteins, protein complexes, and lipid/protein interactions that are linked to ageing, cancer, neurodegenerative, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases as well as genetic disorders. Our research program aims to understand structure, conformational dynamics, and detailed function of these systems and their modulation by drug-like compounds. Our international program is highly attractive for students in biomedical sciences who seek an intellectually demanding and rewarding PhD training to pursue a career in academia or industry. We will prepare our BioMolStruct young researchers to master future challenges in the fields of biomedical research with profound knowledge and innovative app roaches.