This project is ideal for either (i) a student with a biology background with some programming experience and an interest in modelling or (ii) a student with a maths, physics or computer science background who is interested in learning how to perform plant biology experiments.
Seedlings of plants such as basil, babyleaf lettuce and spinach are grown in commercial greenhouses at high densities, so diseases can quickly spread across the population. Within a greenhouse, one of the environmental variables that is easiest to modulate is the lighting regime, as there is often extensive supplemental artificial lighting within the facility.
We have recently discovered a gene network that both influences immunity and response to light, but this research was performed in a model organism (Arabidopsis) that is not important for food production.
In this project, you will assess the extent to which this gene network is conserved in important British greenhouse crops, like basil and lettuce. Then, you will develop a mathematical model that explains the relationship between light frequency, light intensity, the time of day, immunity and yield-related traits. In plants, there is an energetic trade-off between enhanced immunity and enhanced growth (and yield). You will use the model to predict whether certain lighting schedules can enhance immunity without negatively impacting growth. Finally, you will test these predictions in the lab.
This project has the potential to improve the resilience of our food systems, as well as enhance our core mechanistic understanding of how plants respond to combinations of environmental conditions.
The WR DTP and the University of York are committed to recruiting future scientists regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or career pathway to date. We understand that commitment and excellence can be shown in many ways and we have built our recruitment process to reflect this. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in science, who have curiosity, creativity and a drive to learn new skills.
Entry Requirements: Students with, or expecting to gain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. The interdisciplinary nature of this programme means that we welcome applications from students with backgrounds in any biological, chemical, and/or physical science, or students with mathematical backgrounds who are interested in using their skills in addressing biological questions.
Programme: PhD in Mechanistic Biology (4 years)
Start Date: 1st October 2022 (the student will be affiliated with the Department of Biology)
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in mid February 2022
Continue with Facebook
