Sample interview questions: How do you approach designing experiments to study viral protein structure and function?
Sample answer:
Approaching Experimental Design for Viral Protein Structure and Function Studies
- Define Scientific Question: Clearly articulate the specific aspects of viral protein structure or function to be investigated.
- Review Background Literature: Conduct a comprehensive literature review to gather insights into existing knowledge, gaps, and potential hypotheses.
- Select Appropriate Viral Protein: Identify the target viral protein based on its relevance to the research question, accessibility for experimental manipulation, and potential therapeutic significance.
- Determine Protein Expression System: Choose an appropriate host system (e.g., mammalian cells, bacteria, yeast) for efficient protein expression. Optimize expression conditions to ensure correct protein folding and functionality.
- Design Protein Variants: Create point mutations, truncations, or chimeras to explore specific protein domains or residues involved in structure or function.
- Utilize Biochemical and Biophysical Techniques: Employ techniques such as X-ray crystallography, … Read full answer