Thomas Mock
1 year ago
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PhD Studentship - The Role of Light-driven Proton Pumps in Sustaining Oceanic Primary Production University of East Anglia in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Cell Biology
Funding
Fully-funded studentship (fees, stipend, RTSG); international fee waiver possible; relocation/visa/health surcharge not covered.
Deadline
Oct 1, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of East Anglia
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About this position
This PhD project at the University of East Anglia investigates the role of microbial rhodopsins (RHOs), specifically proton pumping rhodopsins (ppRHOs), in diatoms—key contributors to global oceanic primary production. Diatoms are responsible for approximately 45% of annual oceanic primary production, and ppRHOs provide an alternative energy system that supports growth under challenging conditions such as iron limitation. As nutrient limitations are expected to increase due to climate change, understanding how ppRHOs enhance diatom resilience is crucial for predicting future ocean productivity.
The research aims to physiologically characterize ppRHO knock-in diatom cell lines and correlate these findings with the abundance and expression of diatom ppRHO genes in surface oceans. The methodology includes three main objectives: (1) identifying the subcellular localization of two ppRHOs from the polar diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) at UEA and IOCAS; (2) generating knock-in cell lines in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum and subjecting them to environmental stressors such as warming, iron limitation, and acidification to assess phenotypic responses; and (3) analyzing homologs of ppRHO variants from global omics datasets (MOSAiC and TARA Oceans) to study their abundance and expression in relation to environmental variables. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, phenotyping) and bioinformatics (Python), preparing them for interdisciplinary research.
Applicants should have a strong background in biological sciences, meet the English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category), and hold at least a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 degree. The position is fully funded through the ARIES DTP, covering tuition, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 p.a. for 2025/26), and a research training grant, with fee waivers available for international students. The project is supervised by Professor Thomas Mock, an expert in marine microbiology and diatom research. The start date is October 1, 2026.
Funding details
Fully-funded studentship (fees, stipend, RTSG); international fee waiver possible; relocation/visa/health surcharge not covered.
What's required
Applicants must hold at least a UK equivalent Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 degree in Biological Science or an equivalent field. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall and at least 6 in each category. Enthusiasm for molecular microbiology and bioinformatics is expected.
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Professors
Professor at University of East Anglia
University of East Anglia
Research Interests
Cell Biology
Oceanography
Photosynthesis
Bioinformatic
Omics
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.