Investigation of quantum coherence in bacterial photosynthetic systems
The aim of this project will be to use metabolic approaches to investigate the role of quantum coherence in bacterial photosynthesis.
Start date
1 October 2021Duration
Standard project duration is 3 years.Application deadline
Funding source
University of Surrey/Leverhulme TrustFunding information
- Full UK tuition fee covered
- Stipend at £15,285 p.a.
- Personal Computer (provided by the department)
About
There is a great deal of evidence that quantum coherence is a feature of photosynthesis but considerable controversy concerning its role. The aim of this project will be to use metabolic approaches to investigate the role of quantum coherence in bacterial photosynthesis. Metabolomics approaches will be used to add single mass units to atomic nuclei of key atoms in the pigments that are involved in vibrational r electronic coherence and then measure changes in their optical and Raman spectroscopy of the pigments and the efficiency of photosynthesis.
This project will build on an existing QB-DTC project to clone, express and purify bespoke photosynthetic complexes in E. coli. Professor McFadden in a pioneer of quantum biology as well as being an expert in microbial genetics and metabolomics. Dr Youngchan Kim is a lecturer in Quantum Biology and an expert in photonics and spectroscopy. The project will be conducted in the Leverhulme Trust-supported Quantum Biology Doctoral Training Centre at the University of Surrey, the world’s first quantum biology Doctoral Training Centre with 20 current students
Related links
Leverhulme Quantum Biology Doctoral Training Centre (QB-DTC)Eligibility criteria
Applicants must have a BSc/Masters in biologist or experimental physical scientist/chemist.
English language requirements: IELTS overall score of 6.5 or above with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
How to apply
To apply for this studentship:
- Firstly apply for the Quantum Biology PhD.
- During your application, please mention your desire to apply to this studentship in order to be considered.
- When the system asks you to add your ‘Research Project’ please copy and paste the project description of the project you wish to apply for.
- Please provide CV and name of two referees.
Application deadline
Contact details

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