Title: Understanding biomineralization at the micro to nano scale
Also advertised in Earthworkshttps://www.earthworks-jobs.com/geoscience/anu25011
Chief Supervisor: Professor Dorrit Jacob (Research School of Earth Sciences, Australian National University,
Canberra, Australia)
Collaborators: Dr. Laura Otter (Australian National University), Dr. Michael Förster (Australian National University),
Prof Simon Clark (Macquarie University, Sydney)
Description
Shells and skeletons of marine animals are biominerals, formed by organisms using metabolic pathways that are still
relatively unknown. All biominerals contain small percentages of organic macromolecules that influence the
crystallization of the minerals and determine their mechanical properties. These organic components are intergrown
with different mineralized phases in the biominerals at the micro-to nanoscale.
The aim of the PhD project is to characterize such materials in situ at the micro- to nanoscale using state-of the-art
spectroscopic methods (dominantly Nano-IR) and other supporting advanced analytical methods (e.g. Synchrotron Xray
and neutron scattering, TEM etc.). The goal is to gain insights into the composition and distribution of organic
macromolecules and carbonate phases in biominerals and to draw conclusions about interactions at the mineral/organic
interface to understand biomineralization processes. This research will enable the development of biomimetic
materials, an understanding of the effect of climate change on marine life and provide improved constraints on our
climate models.
The PhD student will focus on marine calcifying organisms (molluscs, corals, brachiopods) and their synthetic
laboratory and geological analogues, but work can be expanded to other materials of interest (e.g. silicates, diamond).
Work for this project will be carried out in an interdisciplinary team which includes geochemists and material scientists
in collaboration between ANU and Macquarie University. This interdisciplinary project is suitable for students from
different backgrounds in STEM.
Prior experience
Prior experience in any of the following fields: geochemistry, inorganic or physical chemistry, material sciences,
engineering, physics/biophysics is highly valued. This project would particularly suit a candidate with a deep interest
in nano methods and spectroscopy. Experience with molecular dynamics simulations would be beneficial. This is an
opportunity to develop expertise in cutting-edge methodologies while addressing fundamental scientific questions with
broad implications for materials science, environmental science, and biology
If you are curious about the molecular mechanisms of biomineral formation and eager to contribute to this rapidly
advancing field, we encourage you to apply. This research provides a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of
disciplines, using advanced tools to uncover nature's most intricate designs
As part of your application package, kindly include: 1. CV (including contact information for 2-3 referees) 2. Cover
Letter (this can include: a description of why you want to undertake a PhD; how your previous experiences have
prepared you for the research project that you are applying for; what your passions are within or outside of academia)
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Kindly email your application to: dorrit.jacob@anu.edu.aumailto:dorrit.jacob@anu.edu.au
Professor Dorrit Jacob FAA
Director, Research School of Earth Sciences
The Australian National University
Building J8, 142 Mills Road, ACTON
Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
T +61 2 6125 2487
ORCID ID 0000-0003-4744-6627