Plant reproduction: Stress responses during pollen development

Even a single hot day during reproduction in flowering plants can severely limit reproductive success, largely due to the extreme sensitivity of pollen to heat. As the majority of the world’s food supply relies on plant reproduction, strategies to limit heat-related yield loses will be essential as temperature fluctuations increase with global climate change.

Difficulties accessing pollen while developing in the anther have previously limited molecular studies on how pollen response to stress. This exciting project will utilize a newly developed technique to perform low-input RNA-Seq on pollen isolated from anthers at different stages of development. This will reveal the transcriptional response of developing pollen to high temperatures. The project will use the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. The information gained will be used to explore why pollen is highly sensitive to heat. Additionally, through the use of different Arabidopsis genotypes, the project aims to identify candidate genes to increase the thermotolerance of pollen.

The project will be based at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (http://www.otago.ac.nz/biochemistry/index.html) supervised by Dr Lynette Brownfield. The successful candidate will be supported through the University of Otago Doctoral Scholarship scheme (http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships/database/otago014687.html ). This provides a NZ$25,000 tax-free stipend per annum, plus all tuition fees, for 3 years (regardless of the nationality of the candidate). Please note these scholarships are awarded based on student grades (equivalent to an A average in the US) plus evidence of research excellence. Applicants must have a strong BSc (Hons) or MSc degree in a relevant discipline, good communications skills as well as a willingness to learn, develop and apply new techniques. A background in genetics or molecular biology is essential, while experience in plant science, biochemistry, bioinformatics or epifluorescent/confocal microscopy would also be beneficial. The start date is negotiable.

To apply, please submit the following documents using the form below, or directly by email to: [Email Address Removed]

- A cover letter stating your interest in the position and how your research experience relates to the project.
- A curriculum vitae.
- A copy of your academic transcript (including a list of grades).
- A copy of your research dissertation or thesis, or equivalent research details.
- The names of at least two academic referees.
- Evidence of English language proficiency. If English is not your first language, you must satisfy the University of Otago’s English language requirements (http://www.otago.ac.nz/international/postgraduate/) in order to be considered.