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This project will take a multi-disciplinary approach to unlock the secrets of plant reproduction in order to produce better crops. The ability of plants to reproduce and produce seeds is vital for food production and global food security. Many flowering plants have evolved a natural mechanism called self-incompatibility (SI), which prevents self-fertilization. SI encourages cross-pollination, helping plants maintain genetic diversity, adapt to changing environments, and grow stronger.
The common poppy (Papaver rhoeas) has one of the best-studied SI systems. This system relies on two key proteins: PrpS, which acts as a receptor in the pollen, and PrsS, a protein released by the pistil (the female part of the flower). PrpS-PrsS interaction triggers a process that stops pollen growth by causing ‘self-destruction’. This process its vital to ensure that the plant is only fertilized by pollen from other plants, leading to healthier seeds.
Researchers have already transferred this poppy SI system into other plants to improve agriculture. If SI could be introduced into crops like wheat or rice, it could make hybrid crops easier to produce. Hybrids are important because they are more productive, more resilient to stress, and better able to cope with pests and diseases. However, researchers still don’t fully understand how PrpS works, especially how it interacts with PrsS and what role it plays in the SI process.
Your role:
As part of this PhD project, you will uncover the secrets of PrpS and its role in self-incompatibility. You will gain experience in an exciting range of cutting-edge techniques as part of a team using structural biology, electrophysiology and molecular biology at a number of collaborating research institutes:
Your work will deepen our understanding of plant reproduction and will contribute to developing more sustainable and efficient crop-breeding.
Training opportunities: This studentship offers a rich and varied training program in cutting-edge techniques and interdisciplinary approaches:
This interdisciplinary project provides an excellent foundation for careers in bioscience and agricultural innovation.
Project supervision style: Regular and structured meetings will ensure comprehensive support for the student throughout their research project, primarily based at Reading. The lead supervisor, Gary Stephens, will meet with the student weekly for 1:1 sessions to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback on ongoing research activities. During periods when the student spends most of their time at Diamond, Andrew Quigley will assume weekly supervision to ensure continuity and focused guidance on structural analysis work. Bi-weekly lab group meetings will involve the entire supervisory team, including Maurice Bosch, fostering collaborative discussions on project developments and interdisciplinary insights. Feedback on submitted work will be provided within a maximum of one week, ensuring timely guidance for the student. Additionally, quarterly reviews will assess progress against project milestones and objectives, facilitating adjustments to the research plan as necessary. This structured approach aims to create a supportive environment conducive to the student’s academic and professional development.
Student profile: This is a plant science focused project, however, the cell biology techniques to be applied to determine the structure and function of the PrpS protein are equally applicable to applicants with undergraduate and/or Masters level skills in biomedical, pharmacology and related subjects.
How to Apply: Applications will be by an online application form only. Do not send CVs. Please go to the FoodBioSystems website to see guidance to applicants, information on academic and funding eligibility and language proficiency.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion: The FoodBioSystems DTP is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our actions to promote diversity and inclusion are detailed on the FoodBioSystems DTP website and include: Offering reasonable adjustments at interview for shortlisted candidates who have disclosed a disability or specific learning difference; Guaranteed interview and applicant mentoring schemes for applicants, with UK home fees status, from eligible under-represented ethnic groups. These are opt-in processes.
Stipend (Salary): FoodBioSystems DTP students receive an annual tax free stipend (salary) that is paid in instalments throughout the year. For 2024/25 this is £19,237 and it will increase slightly each year at rate set by UKRI.
Visit the FoodBioSystems website for more information.
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