Motivation Letter. Looking for PhD advisor

Hi everybody!

Could someone give me a hand to check this motivation letter? I'm not sure about content, structure... and maybe there are some grammatic mistakes. Thank you in advance.

Dear XXX,

I am writing to apply for the XXXXXXXXXXXX

I graduated in Biology in 2007 from the University of XXXX, Spain. During my studies I became very interested in microbial ecology and biotechnology, especially when are related to extremophiles. Thus, I focused in biotechnology during the last two years (5 years syllabus).

During my final year, I worked in the XXXXXXX Team of the XXXXXXXXX Department at the same University. Evaluating the lipase activity of different extracts from moderate thermophilic microorganisms was my main objective.

After my graduation I went to Madrid, where I took a Master in XXXXXXXXXXX, focused in research. In the XXXXXXXX Centre (XXXXX University associate centre), I carried out a master thesis testing the application of molecular ecology methodologies (fluorescent in situ hybridization: FISH and CARD-FISH) for the monitoring of microbial populations in a reactor for bioleaching. Throughout the master, I became even more interested in some of these less-common, maybe, "exotic" research topics in microbiology: extremophiles, bioleaching, microbial ecology, bioremediation, astrobiology...

Once I finished the master, I did a gap year. During 5 months I lived in Australia improving my English. Now I will start a new research project in the XXXXXX Team of the XXXXXXX Department of the University of XXXXX.

During my study I did numerous specialised class works and seminars. One of my works (about bioleaching) was published in the magazine of the Faculty of Biology of the University of XXXX. My plans now are continue my research career, and if it would be possible reach the PhD level in the future.

As ******** University has important research activities in ************, I would like to be given the opportunity to be one of its prestigious research groups. I am sure that my passion to scientific research, along with my skills, knowledge and competence would make me a valuable member of your research team, Hence I would appreciate if you consider my application for developing a PhD under your supervision.

I aware of the challenge could suppose choose ****** [COUNTRY] in terms of adaptation both in the laboratory and in the social view. However, I believe in my capabilities of adaptation which I could test travelling to Australia alone and living there.

Thank you very much for considering my application and I look forward to hearing from you. I enclose my CV for more detailed information.

Sincerely,