University of East Anglia
1 week ago
PhD Studentship: Engineering Biology to Decode Gene Regulatory Networks in Lateral Root Initiation University of East Anglia in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of East Anglia
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About this position
PhD Studentship: Engineering Biology to Decode Gene Regulatory Networks in Lateral Root Initiation at the University of East Anglia, working with the Guiziou Group at the Earlham Institute.
This project sits at the intersection of engineering biology, plant science, and single-cell genomics. The research aims to understand lateral root initiation by reconstructing the gene expression programme that drives lateral root founder cell specification. The project will use DNA-based recorders based on serine integrase to capture the order in which genes of interest are expressed, then combine this approach with single-cell RNA sequencing to dissect spatiotemporal gene regulation.
You will build and optimise integrase-based genetic circuits in Arabidopsis, use fluorescence microscopy to analyse engineered lines, and apply FACS alongside single-cell RNA-seq to profile precise lateral root founder cell subpopulations. The project is designed to deliver high-resolution insight into the gene regulatory network underlying root development, while also contributing to the broader mission of the Guiziou group to advance sustainable agriculture.
The project provides extensive training in engineering biology, automation, molecular biology, microscopy, plant transformation, protoplasting, FACS, and single-cell RNA sequencing and analysis. It is a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD studentship.
Funding includes payment of tuition fees directly to the university, a stipend to cover living expenses at the 2026/27 rate of £21,805, and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000 per year for each year of the studentship.
Applications should be submitted through the University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal before 30 November 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
The posting addresses motivated undergraduates with a passion for engineering biology and plant science. No specific degree classification, language test, or prior technical requirement is explicitly stated in the text, but the project indicates training in molecular biology, microscopy, plant transformation, protoplasting, FACS, single-cell RNA sequencing, and analysis.
How to apply
Apply through the University of East Anglia postgraduate research application portal. Use the application link provided in the advert and submit your materials before the deadline.
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