PhD Studentship: Genomic Signatures Underlying Functional Diversity in Root Symbiotic Fungi University of East Anglia in United Kingdom

[Fully-funded studentship for eligible UKRI candidates, covering fees, maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and research training and support grant (RTSG). International applicants may have the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees waived, but relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs are not covered.] This PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia focuses on uncovering the genomic signatures underlying functional diversity in root symbiotic fungi, specifically ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECMF). ECMF are vital for terrestrial ecosystem functioning, forming symbiotic relationships with plant roots that facilitate nutrient exchange and enhance plant resilience to environmental stressors. Despite their ecological importance, the functional and genetic diversity of ECMF remains poorly understood. The project aims to investigate functional differences among ECMF species at the genomic level by analyzing gene copy number variation, selective pressures on key genes, and gene expression regulation related to nutrient cycles (nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon) in ecosystems. The research is a collaboration between the Earlham Institute, renowned for genomics and bioinformatics, and the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, a global authority in fungal and plant diversity. The student will utilize existing data, perform whole-genome sequencing to study population-level adaptation, and conduct enzymatic and gene expression experiments to test functional differences. Methodologies include fieldwork, microbiology, comparative genomics, and transcriptomic analyses. The studentship offers comprehensive training in field-based, laboratory, and bioinformatics techniques, providing valuable skills for both academic and industry careers. Training includes coding, data science, computational analysis, and specialized fungal biology. Applicants should have a strong interest in fungal ecology and evolution, with experience in programming and basic statistics. Entry requirements include a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 in Biology and English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). The position is available full or part time, starting October 2026. Funding is provided through the ARIES studentship, subject to UKRI terms, covering full fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and a research training grant. International applicants may have fee differences waived, but must cover relocation, visa, and health surcharge costs. Applications are open until 7 January 2025 via the UEA postgraduate research portal.