M P Williamson

This fully funded PhD project, part of the BBSRC Yorkshire Bioscience Doctoral Training Partnership (YBDTP), aims to unravel the mechanisms of apicoplast genome organisation in Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for malaria. The apicoplast, a non-photosynthetic plastid, is essential for parasite survival and contains its own genome. Understanding how this genome is compacted and decompacted is crucial, as it is mediated by the HU protein, a bacterial histone-equivalent with unique features in Plasmodium. The project will employ advanced single molecule biophysical techniques, including optical tweezers and smFRET, alongside single particle electron cryomicroscopy (cryoEM) and NMR, to develop a comprehensive understanding of apicoplast DNA compaction. This research will not only advance fundamental knowledge of DNA organisation but also inform future structure-based antimalarial drug development, addressing the challenge of multi-drug resistant malaria. The successful candidate will join the School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield, working in a supportive, world-class research environment with access to cutting-edge facilities. The project is interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with Exciting Instruments, a leader in single molecule instrumentation, offering opportunities for both academic and industry engagement. Applicants from biological, chemical, physical sciences, or mathematics backgrounds are encouraged to apply, especially those interested in applying their skills to biological questions. The studentship is open to UK, EU, and international students, with a competitive selection process and a limited number of full studentships for international candidates. The award covers a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26), tuition fees at the UK rate, and research costs for four years. Applicants must have or expect to obtain at least an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent. English language proficiency may be required for non-native speakers. The application deadline is 7 January 2026, with interviews scheduled for February 2025. For more information or to apply, candidates should submit an expression of interest form via the YBDTP website.