About the Project
Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is an antistress compound with key roles in global nutrient and sulfur cycling, signaling and climate. DMSP functions as an osmoprotectant, cryoprotectant, protectant against oxidative stress and a grazing deterrent. Saltmarshes are global hotspots for DMSP production because Spartina grass growing there produce high intracellular concentrations of DMSP. Despite knowing the biochemical pathway for DMSP synthesis in these plants the key enzyme identities remain undiscovered.
This PhD aims to identify the two key Spartina DMSP synthesis enzymes. These enzymes, known as S-methyl-methionine decarboxylase (SDC) and DMSP-amine oxidase (DOX), are the only enzymes missing from common plants. The PhD student will be taught how to use molecular and biochemical techniques (e.g., RNA-seq) to identify candidate SDC and DOX genes. They will identify functional genes through cloning and enzymology and study their expression in the host plant in response to environmental conditions. Training will be given to transfer these genes into e.g. Arabidopsis, and thus the potential to make DMSP. Using analytical chemistry, they will characterise the ability of the transgenic lines to produce DMSP and will study the growth and the physiology of the lines to determine if environmental factors, e.g., temperature, salinity, oxidative stress and drought, affect their productivity and growth. In the modern world, the ability to produce crops in sub-optimal saline/drought ridden environments, not currently suitable for agriculture, is of high importance.
Training will be provided at UEA and JIC by Brearley, Osbourn, Miller and Todd in plant physiology, molecular biology, metabolomics and the skills required to study Arabidopsis and Spartina.
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 8th, 9th or 10th January 2019.
The NRP DTP 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: http://www.biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk
Project Start Date: 01/10/2019
Length of Studentship: 4 years
Mode of Study: Full-Time
Minimum Entry Requirements: UK 2:1 & Eng Lang (6.5 overall, 6 in each section)
Funding Notes
For funding eligibility guidance, please visit our website: http://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/how-to-apply/funding-and-eligibility. Full Studentships cover a stipend (UKRI rate: £14,777pa – 2018/9), 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. To be eligible students must meet the EU residency requirements.
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