Understanding RNAi Application for the Control of Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle John Innes Centre in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity at the John Innes Centre focuses on the application of RNA interference (RNAi) for the control of the cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB), a major pest of Brassica crops such as oilseed rape. The project addresses the urgent need for sustainable pest management solutions, following the EU-wide ban on neonicotinoids and increasing resistance to pyrethroid pesticides, which have led to significant reductions in UK oilseed rape cultivation. RNA-based products have demonstrated promising results, with up to 76% beetle mortality, but their efficacy can be influenced by factors such as RNA efficiency, adjuvant formulation, application methods, and environmental conditions. Understanding these variables is crucial for developing effective, targeted pest control strategies.

In collaboration with CRODA, a global specialty chemical manufacturer, and the John Innes Centre (JIC), the student will utilize established RNA product testing systems and a captive CSFB colony to investigate the mechanisms and efficacy of RNA-based formulations. The research will be conducted within the Wells and Morris labs, which have extensive experience in Brassica crop research, and will be supported by CRODA's chemists. The project offers tailored training based on the student's background and interests, covering experimental design, statistical analysis, entomology, plant husbandry, molecular biology, RNA-seq analysis, RNAi, formulation chemistry, and commercial product testing. A secondment with CRODA (minimum three months) provides valuable industry experience, with flexible placement arrangements.

The studentship is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award, in partnership with CRODA. Funding includes tuition fees paid to the University of East Anglia, an annual tax-free stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26) plus a £2,500 per annum stipend enhancement, and a Research Training Support Grant for additional training, consumables, equipment, and conference attendance. Entry requirements include at least a UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or UK equivalence Masters degree, and an English language requirement of IELTS 6.5 overall (with 6.0 in each component). The position is full-time and begins on 1 October 2026.

Applicants will join a collaborative research environment, gaining a comprehensive skill set relevant to both academic and commercial sectors. The project is ideal for candidates interested in agricultural sciences, molecular biology, entomology, and sustainable crop protection. Applications should be submitted online via the FindAPhD project link before the deadline of 4 May 2026. For further information, contact the Graduate Programme at John Innes Centre.