One or two Ph.D. student positions are available in the computational
chemistry group at Boston College. Our chemistry department is ranked
among the top 50 nationwide, and we currently enroll more than 120
graduate students performing cutting-edge research in all areas of
chemistry.

The research in our group focuses on understanding the microscopic
properties of condensed phase chemical processes, with particular
emphasis on biological systems. We study both fundamental aspects of
biomolecules in general, such as the effects of solvation on the
structure and dynamics of proteins in both aqueous and membrane
environments, as well as specific biochemical processes, such as the
workings of molecular motors, and the binding of drugs to their targets.

A recent focus of our work has been the conformational dynamics of the
c-unit of ATP synthase, a complex enzyme which facilitates the
synthesis of cellular ATP by utilizing a transmembrane proton gradient
to drive a rotary catalytic mechanism. A significant part of our effort is
devoted to the development of advanced methods for biomolecular
simulations, which will allow us to study larger systems and probe
longer timescales.

Other areas of interest include:

-The study of complexation of carbon nanotubes by polymers and surfactants
-Investigation of the kinetics of the allosteric transition in certain
 enzymes which are important targets for diabetes therapy 
-Study of ligand-induced conformational changes in a class of tumor suppressant
proteins

Additional information is available at: http://www2.bc.edu/~krilov

We are seeking highly motivated students, with research background in
computational/ theoretical chemistry or physics and computational
skills. Familiarity with Linux/Unix, programing experience (such as C, C++, Perl) 
and/or experience in molecular modeling and  simulations is a strong plus. 
The positions are funded through teaching and research assistantships and 
include full tuition remission as well as a competitive stipend. To apply, 
please send a CV and the names of three references to Prof. Goran Krilov
 (krilov{=}bc.edu)