PhD Position on the Molecular Mechanism of the Multidrug ABC Transporter BmrA

This PhD position offers a funded research opportunity at the Molecular Microbiology and Structural Biochemistry laboratory (MMSB) in Lyon, France, jointly supervised by CNRS and Université Lyon 1. The project investigates how the multidrug ABC transporter BmrA accommodates and exports a wide range of antibiotics, addressing a critical challenge in global health caused by bacterial antimicrobial resistance. Employing a multidisciplinary strategy, the successful candidate will integrate molecular biology, functional assays, and cryo-electron microscopy to determine 3D structures and transport dynamics. The applicant is expected to be a highly motivated researcher with a strong background in biochemistry, biophysics, or structural biology.

• Perform site-directed mutagenesis, overexpression, and purification of wild-type and mutant BmrA membrane proteins.
• Conduct functional characterization tests including ATPase activity assays and drug transport studies.
• Investigate drug-protein interactions using methods such as Isothermal Titration Calorimetry and fluorescence-based tests.
• Determine three-dimensional protein structures using cryo-electron microscopy.
• Analyze and interpret multidisciplinary data bridging biochemistry, biophysics, and structural biology.
• Contribute to scientific publications and present research findings at collaborative meetings and conferences.