BBSRC White Rose DTP Studentship - Swinging Stomata: 4D capture of plant cell morphodynamics to inform on wall mechanics

Stomata are pores on the leaf surface which open and close to allow gas flow needed for photosynthesis and growth. Over the last decade we have gained extensive understanding of how they are made and the signals that control opening/closure, but our understanding of the cell wall mechanics that allow actual change of cell shape required for stomatal function remains incomplete.

In this project you will use advanced imaging linked to computational analaysis to generate 4D models of the guard cells of stomata as they open and close in real-time. These models will allow you to infer the nature of the cell wall mechanics which must underpin such cell behaviours. You will then exploit an array of genetic resources to test the hypotheses derived from the models.

The project builds on a platform of published work (Woolfenden et al, Trends Plant Sci 23, 822-832). We are looking for a student (based in Sheffield) interested in understanding the mechanism of shape control, preferably with some background in microscopy and cell biology, who is open to learning some computational modelling. We provide a large, supportive group of researchers with excellent training opportunities to fulfil your PhD ambitions.

Key words: Stomata, Imaging, Plant Cell Biology, Cell Wall, Modelling