Overview

About the programme

The aim of this CRC Structural Dynamics of GPCR Activation and Signaling initiative at Leipzig University is to understand the structural dynamics of ligand binding, signal transduction, and downstream control of G protein- and arrestin-signaling pathways using native ligands as well as artificial probe molecules in conjunction with hybrid methods of structural biology including NMR, X-ray (conventional and serial protein X-ray crystallography at synchrotrons and free electron lasers), cryo-electron microscopy, mass spectrometry and computational methods (molecular modeling and dynamics).

Phenomena such as biased signaling are tackled using assays that target specific signaling pathways. Results are tied in with a phylogenetic analysis of GPCRs, arrestins and G proteins. One goal of the CRC is to clarify the dynamic structural states of these GPCRs in order to understand their functions. This could lead to the development of novel therapeutics for this class of GPCRs.

Programme Structure

Research projects include:

Structural elucidation of neuropeptide GPCRs
Investigation of the structure and dynamics of the ghrelin/GHS receptor complex
Characterizing the molecular interactions of Y1 and Y2 receptors with NPY
Characterizing the molecular interaction between the Y receptor and arrestin
Structures of adhesion GPCR by cryo-electron microscopy
Enzymology of autoproteolysis and signaling function of the GAIN domain in adhesion GPCRs
Innovative Rosetta algorithms for comparative modeling and docking of GPCRs

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-10-01 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Leipzig, Germany

Disciplines

Molecular Sciences View 20 other PhDs in Molecular Sciences in Germany

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Required:

dated and signed application form
written confirmation from your supervisor (supervision agreement)
CV
secondary school leaving certificate (certified copy)
evidence of university entrance examination (certified copy), if applicable
evidence of all university degrees (certified copies), e.g. bachelor’s, master’s, Diplom)
Transcripts of Records from all secondary and university qualifications (certified copies)
evidence of your knowledge of German at DSH-2 level, if the doctorate will be in German (certified copy)
evidence of your knowledge of English, if the doctorate will be in English
confirmation of admission to a faculty’s list of doctoral candidates, if already available (confirmation can otherwise be submitted within one semester)

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

Free
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

Free

Living costs

Leipzig

Germany

720 - 1047 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Structural Dynamics of GPCR Activation and Signaling.

Available Scholarships

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