Exploring Nature's Molecular Machines

Utrecht University
Faculty of Science (UU)

Course code: M31
Advanced bachelor level

This course focuses on the chemical principles underlying protein structure and function and how proteins form an assembly of “molecular machines” that work together to sustain the living state. We will explore how proteins “know” what shape they should fold up into following their synthesis, how they cluster into dynamic macromolecular complexes, and how these complexes communicate to form “social” networks that enable cells to move, replicate, signal, and execute other vital processes. The students will be introduced to advanced methods in structural and molecular biology for decoding the cellular protein machinery at atomic resolution, and examine how malfunction of specific components can lead to systemic failure and disease. The school will combine theory (lectures, tutorials) with experiment, laboratory tours and a visit to a leading Biotech company.

Video: Utrecht Summer Schools in Science 2009

» Download the day-to-day programme (PDF)

COURSE DIRECTOR

Dr. J. Holthuis

LECTURERS

Prof. M. Baldus, Prof. A. Bonvin, Prof. I. Braakman, Dr. E. Breukink, Prof. R. Boulens, Prof. P. Gros, Prof. A. Heck, Dr. J. Holthuis, Dr. E. Huizinga, Prof. G. van Meer, Dr. S. Mohammed, Dr. S. Rüdiger, Prof. J. Tommassen, Dr. P. van Bergen en Henegouwen, and others.

LOCATION

- Utrecht, The Netherlands

TARGET GROUP

Advanced bachelors / beginning masters in the early stage of their study with a background in chemistry, molecular biology or biophysics as well as proficiency in English.

Applicants should go through a selection procedure. (Maximum number of participants: 20)

COURSE AIM

To introduce the student to technology for decoding nature’s molecular machines, and how the acquired knowledge provides a rationale for novel therapeutic interventions and applications in nano- and synthetic biology.

PERIOD

16-08-2010 - 27-08-2010 (2 weeks)

CREDITS

3.0 ECTS credits + Certificate of Attendance

FEE

• € 855 - Course + course materials + housing + deposit

Selection:
Applications (to be sent to Cecile Lemette) should include:
- Letter of motivation,
- Curriculum vitae,
- Two letters of recommendation,
- Recent set of transcripts (marks/grades) (PDF or original transcript) in English, German, French (or in Dutch for Dutch students).

Your online application will not be considered without the two required recommendation letters by academic referees.
Additional information about the application procedure can be found here

DISCOUNTS AND COMBINATIONS

Overview of all available discounts

SCHOLARSHIPS

A limited number of scholarships in the form of (partial) fee waivers and/or accommodation intended for talented students from developing countries is available. Talented students from other countries can also apply. There are no travel grants. If you seek financial support you should state your request (on a separate sheet) by describing the reasons for applying to this summer school and how your participation will assist you in future studies and your career. You should motivate your financial situation and other means you have available for financing your participation to this summer school. The applications for scholarships will undergo a selection procedure. Students accepted for the MSc program in Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences are exempted from paying the €500 Summer School course + course materials fee

Information about the fees for Dutch students can be found here.

MORE INFORMATION

Cecile Lemette
E: science.secr.me@uu.nl
P: +31-30-253 3966
F: +31-30-252 2478
Utrecht University
Membrane Enzymology
H.R. Kruytgebouw N-606
Padualaan 8
3584 CH Utrecht
the Netherlands

REGISTRATION

Deadline for registration: 30-06-2010

Application closed