Post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression is an essential strategy by which organisms respond rapidly to environmental change. This is especially true of Streptomyces bacteria, which often live in hostile and fluctuating environments such as soils. The success of this class of antibiotic-producing filamentous sporulating bacteria is linked to its keen ability to sense and respond to its surroundings. A multitude of secondary metabolites are produced in response to environmental cues, many of which humans have co-opted as antibiotics or other therapeutic compounds. However, we lack a key piece to the puzzle – we have a poor understanding of post-transcriptional gene regulation and its contribution to controlling primary and secondary metabolism. This project aims to fill this gap by using RNAseq analysis combined with bacteriological and biochemical assays to better understand expression of leaderless mRNAs and mRNAs with 5’ UnTranslated Regions (UTRs). The successful applicant will have an opportunity to become an expert in RNA biology, with an emphasis on riboswitches, small RNAs, and leaderless mRNA expression, as well as a diverse set of techniques including bacterial genetics, analysis of next generation sequencing datasets, and in vitro transcription/translation assays.
Eligibility
Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline.
The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.
How to apply
To apply for this scholarship opportunity applicants should complete an online application form and attach the following documentation to support their application.
- a full academic CV
- degree certificate and transcripts of marks
- Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)
To help us identify that you are applying for this scholarship project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;
- Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study
- Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert
- For source of funding please state you are applying for an advertised University of Leeds Scholarship
As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Within the Faculty of Biological Sciences we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+; and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.
For further information about this scholarship please contact the Faculty Graduate School
e: [Email Address Removed]
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