York YBDTP project: Why diatoms produce palmitvaccenic acid?

Lead supervisor: Dr T Tonon

Co-supervisors: Prof Luke Mackinder and Dr Gillian Taylor, Teesside University

The student will be registered with the Department of Biology (University of York)

Palmitvaccenic acid (16:1Δ11, PVA) is a fatty acid produced by organisms belonging to three distinct phylogenetic groups: microalgae, insects, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. While it is known to be a precursor for pheromone synthesis in insects, there is currently limited knowledge on its biological role(s) in fungi and microalgae. We have identified a key enzyme involved in the production of PVA in the genetic and genomic diatom model Thalassiosira pseudonana. Diatoms are a diverse group of mainly photosynthetic microalgae responsible for approximately 20 % of global net primary production. They also play central roles in the global carbon and silicate cycles. Their metabolism is shaped through a complex evolutionary history, and many of the traits underpinning their ecological success remain unknown. Our interdisciplinary approach will combine cell biology, CRISPR/Cas, transcriptomic, proteomic and lipidomics analysis to decipher the biological roles of PVA in T. pseudonana. This project will contribute explaining why diatoms can rapidly adapt to changing physiological conditions and dominate diverse aquatic environments. It will also contribute to fill a gap that has so far limited evolutionary studies of biological processes across the eukaryotic tree of life and across land and aquatic environments. It will positively impact the field of functional diatom biology, and support research on organisms of paramount importance to keep the atmosphere on Earth compatible with life in the context of climate change.

The Departments of Biology and Chemistry both hold an Athena SWAN Gold Award. We are committed to supporting equality and diversity and strive to provide a positive working environment for all staff and students.

The YB 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 any biological, chemical, and/or physical science backgrounds, or students with mathematical background who are interested in using their skills in addressing biological questions. 

Programme: PhD in Biology (4 years)

How to apply

To submit your application, click on apply now. You can apply for up to 3 YBDTP projects (which can be at different universities).

We advise you to read the questions in the form before submitting your application. Inside the form there is a link to a document for you to see the questions in advance.

If you have questions about the application process, please email [Email Address Removed].

If you have questions about the project you are interested in, please email the project supervisor (see project description).

How we allocate:

Shortlisting will take place shortly after the closing date and successful applicants will be notified promptly. If you're shortlisted, you'll be invited for an interview on a date to be confirmed in February 2025. You'll be notified shortly after the interview dates whether your application has been successful, placed on a reserve list or unsuccessful. If you are successful, you'll be required to confirm your intention to accept the studentship within 10 days.

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Application deadline: Monday 6th January 2025