Prof J Jones
No more applications being accepted
Competition Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
Programmable nucleases such as CrispR/Cas9 are revolutionizing biology by enabling specific genome sequences to be targeted for mutation, or for homologous recombination (HR). Such New Breeding Technologies (NBTs) can result in loss-of-function mutations, or enable precise replacement (Knock-In Exchange, or KIE) of useful genes from one plant via HR into the corresponding chromosomal position of another plant. We work with Resistance to Phytophthora infestans (Rpi) genes from wild potato and tomato relatives. The main goal of this project is to use CrispR/Cas9 (and test also the related Cpf1 programmable nuclease) to replace non-functional Rpi gene homologs in tomato and potato diploid inbred lines, with functional Rpi gene alleles. We work with inbred potato lines from www.solynta.com. Prior to targeting with KIE, resistance gene repertoires of Solanum genotypes of interest will be characterized using RenSeq with long PacBio reads (Witek et al 2016). The student will generate KIE events that (depending on NBT regulation) could be brought to market in F1 hybrids, and will interact with private and public sector breeders.
The student will learn skills in molecular biology, Mendelian and somatic genetics, tissue culture, DNA and cDNA sequence capture and Resistance gene assembly (RenSeq) and associated bioinformatics, in GoldenGate cloning methods, and in genome editing using HR. A strong interest in genetics, in mechanisms of homologous recombination, in plant disease resistance and in crop improvement would be an advantage.
Cermak T (2015) High-frequency, precise modification of the tomato genome Genome Biology 16:232 DOI 10.1186/s13059-015-0796-9
Witek (2016) Rpi gene cloning using Renseq and sMrt sequencing Nat Biot 34:656-660 www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27111721
This project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition. Candidates will be interviewed on either the 10th, 11th or 12th January 2017.
The Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three month professional internship (PIPS) during their study. The internship offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.
For further information and to apply, please visit our website: www.biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk
Funding Notes
Full Studentships cover a stipend (RCUK rate: £14,296pa – 2016/7), research costs and tuition fees at UK/EU rate, and are available to UK and EU students who meet the UK residency requirements.
Students from EU countries who do not meet the UK residency requirements may be eligible for a fees-only award. Students in receipt of a fees-only award will be eligible for a maintenance stipend awarded by the NRPDTP Bioscience Doctoral Scholarships, which when combined will equal a full studentship. To be eligible students must meet the EU residency requirements. Details on eligibility for funding on the BBSRC website: http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/documents/studentship-eligibility-pdf/