Development and Evolution of Shapes: Investigating the genetic pathways governing the leaf shape in Arabidopsis

The shapes and sizes of organisms and organs are scrupulously conserved within a species. What regulates the shapes and sizes of organisms and their lateral organs are intriguing and fundamental questions in Biology. Understanding the mechanisms controlling shapes and sizes will also lead to new genetic tools that will be essential for tackling the future challenges such as improving crop yield, to support the ever-growing global population.

To this end, we focus on understanding genetic mechanisms controlling diverse shapes and sizes of leaves. Leaves are the main photosynthetic organ and show a great diversity in shape and size. We have been investigating the key regulators controlling the leaf shape in Arabidopsis. Changes in these key regulators alter the final leaf shape and also involve in the natural shape variation among different ecotypes.

In this project you will investigate the genetic pathways governing the leaf shape in Arabidopsis, and also determine how environmental cues affect these genetic pathways. Experimental approaches such as molecular biology, genetics, plant histology and phylogenetic analysis will be used for the study. This includes techniques such as molecular cloning and expression analysis, in situ hybridization, immunolocalization, plant transformation and tissue culture, Scanning Electron Micrography (SEM) and sequence analysis.

Entry Requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area/subject. Candidates with previous laboratory experience, particularly in cell culture and molecular biology, are particularly encouraged to apply.

How To Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select PhD Genetics

For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/”

For international students we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit http://www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk