Our group develops new algorithms for cryo-EM structure determination and implements these in the popular image processing software RELION. In addition, we work on experimental cryo-EM structure determination of amyloids. Depending on the interests of the student, a PhD project could be formulated on either research direction. On the algorithm side, possible topics include the application of deep-learning techniques from artificial intelligence to several tasks in the electron tomography pipelines. On the amyloid side, we are keen to develop experimental model systems of disease (in vitro assembly, cellular assays and animals) that replicate the same structures as we have observed from human brain. The latter would be in close collaboration with Michel Goedert in the Neurobiology division.

References

S.H.W. Scheres RELION: Implementation of a Bayesian approach to cryo-EM structure determination J. Struc. Biol. 180, 519-530

A.W.P. Fitzpatrick, B. Falcon, S. He, A.G. Murzin, G. Murshudov, H.J. Garringer, R.A. Crowther, B. Ghetti, M. Goedert & S.H.W. Scheres Cryo-EM structures of tau filaments from Alzheimer's disease
Nature 547, 185-190