The shape of plants is shaped by both genetics and environment; changes in response to temperature can be the most dramatic of all. In this PhD you will use genetic, evo-devo, omics and molecular biology approaches to investigate how temperature and genetics interact to shape the structure of the plant’s inflorescence – its flowering branches - to combat climate change, working both with model plants in the lab and crops in the field. Additionally, if you would like to and have the skills, image analysis and mathematical modelling can also form part of this project.
Many plants synchronize flowering in spring by sensing and storing an epigenetic ‘memory’ of cold, which then affects the timing, morphology and productivity of the inflorescence produced. This process, known as vernalization, is under threat due to climate change, affecting ecological networks and crop yields. The ability to predict plant responses to temperature and select crop variation that will adapt to future climates is critical. Nevertheless, the precise temperature sensitivity and role of these genes are only just being characterized (Hepworth et al. 2018, Antoniou-Kourounioti, Hepworth et al. 2020, Calderwood et al 2021, Lu et al 2022). These processes include molecular mechanisms that have only recently been described, including growth-based regulation and protein condensates.
This project will investigate the control of flowering branch production in Arabidopsis and Brassica crops by using a range of approaches including comparative genetics and investigation of gene function, transcriptional regulation, histone modification, protein dynamics, sampling in field and laboratory, and hormone responses. Students interested in working with mathematical modellers are particularly encouraged to apply, but the project can be flexible to suit the interest of the student. We have some interesting starting data so the student will be able to get going quickly.
We are looking for someone with a passion for untangling the genetic components of plant form to generate results that inspire other scientists and help plant breeders and farmers mitigate against climate change – someone who doesn’t mind getting a bit muddy while doing it!
About the lab
The Hepworth ‘Cool Cabbage’ lab studies the responses of both model plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) and crop species (Brassica rapa, B. napus, B. oleracea) to field-like temperatures, both in laboratory settings and in the field. Using a mix of genetics, molecular biology, image analysis, comparative approaches, natural variation and by working with mathematical modellers, the lab aims to generate information to accelerate predictive breeding in Brassica crops and understand the gene networks that differentiate Arabidopsis from turnips, a cauliflower from a cabbage.
Training
Training will be provided in a wide range of biological techniques including genetics, molecular biology including chromatin immunoprecipitation, phenotyping, and transgenics as well as transferable skills such as experimental design, data analysis, statistics, presentations and report writing. Students with appropriate qualifications and who wish to develop bioinformatics, programming skills and mathematical modelling techniques as part of the PhD will be supported to do so.
Funding
Funding comes directly from Durham University for the full four years, and covers UK Home student fees and a stipend at standard UKRI rate (e.g. currently £19,237 for 2024/25). Funding for fees is only at Home rates, so this opportunity is only open to students with UK citizenship, refugee status or Right to Remain. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the project supervisor informally.
How to apply
Applicants should possess, or expect to obtain before starting, at least a 2:1 Honours degree, or equivalent experience, in an appropriate subject (e.g. biology, biotechnology, genetics, systems biology, agriculture/plant breeding, computational biology).
To apply for this studentship, applicants should submit their application using the online system: https://studyatdurham.microsoftcrmportals.com/en-US/. Please select PhD in Biological Sciences: Course Code C1A001.
Informal enquiries to discuss the opportunity, project and lab environment before application are strongly encouraged, please contact the project supervisor Dr Jo Hepworth - Durham University
Applications to start in October 2024 will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified – apply ASAP to ensure you are considered.
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