Understanding and optimising the regulation of photosynthetic metabolism to sustainably improve crop productivity

Project Description:

Photosynthesis is a key process in the quest to achieve increases in agricultural productivity and sustainability. The assimilation of carbon from the atmosphere to the biosphere is highly regulated in response to environmental changes. A prime example of such fine regulation is the central carbon fixing enzyme Rubisco. This includes interaction with other proteins such as Rubisco activase that remove inhibitory sugar-phosphates from Rubisco’s catalytic sites. Other chloroplast components such as CO₂ and Mg²⁺ are required to activate the enzyme and changes in their bioavailability impact Rubisco activity. While considerable progress has been achieved, many questions remain concerning Rubisco regulation in response to environmental changes.

This project will investigate the role of specific metabolites known to inhibit Rubisco activity and the impact of changes in the chloroplast environment on related phosphatases: carboxyarabinitol-1-phosphate phosphatase (CA1Pase) and xylulose-1,5-bisphosphate phosphatase (XuBPase). The overall aim is to enhance the mechanistic understanding of this regulation and evaluate scope for improving photosynthetic productivity, crop yield and food security.

Using the crops cowpea and soybean as target species, the project will combine in vitro and in vivo analyses and provide an opportunity to develop skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, and plant physiology. You will join and be supported by the photosynthesis team at Lancaster and the RIPE project. While you will contribute to an ongoing project, there is the potential to adapt the research objectives to your interests and skills, as well as adjust the plan as the research progresses.

General eligibility criteria

Enthusiasm, self-motivation, resilience, curiosity and the ability to communicate to a range of audiences are all distinctly advantageous qualities for a PhD student. Applicants would normally be expected to hold a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2:1 level or equivalent in a relevant degree course. However, applicants who have gained experience in relevant fields through non-traditional routes are strongly encouraged to apply.

We welcome applications from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, candidates who are in the first generation of their family to go to university, candidates who have been in care or who have been a young carer, and candidates from a low-income background.

This studentship is open to UK and international applicants, no additional fees apply, but please note below regarding stipend length.

English language requirements for overseas students can be found here.

Project specific criteria

We are looking for an enthusiastic, curious and self-driven student who wishes to work with us on this research project. The project would suit candidates with an interest in photosynthesis, metabolic regulation, and biochemistry. A background in these topics is an advantage but not a requirement provided the candidate shows a strong interest and desire to learn. The candidate will be supported by experienced supervisors with backgrounds in the topic and join a vibrant LEC photosynthesis community of academics, postdoctoral researchers, technicians, and postgraduate students. You are welcome to contact the team members with honest queries about their experience of being part of our team. The opportunity to attend national and international conferences will contribute to developing your network and enhancing your scientific writing and presentation skills.

Studentship funding

A tax-free stipend will be paid at the standard UKRI rate; £17,668 in 2022/23. This is a fully funded studentship of 3.5 years for UK/Home students, or fully funded 3 year studentship for International students. No additional fees apply to international students.

Enquiries

Interested applicants are welcome to get in touch to learn more about the PhD project. Please contact Prof Elizabete Carmo-Silva ([Email Address Removed]) or Dr Doug Orr ([Email Address Removed]) for more information.

Dates

Deadline for applications: 23^rd January 2023

Provisional Interview Date: 31^st January 2023     

Start Date: 1^st October 2023