PhD Studentship in Plant RNA Imaging and Molecular Biology
Investigate how non-coding COOLAIR RNA responds to temperature changes inside plant cells using advanced fluorescence microscopy.
Best for:Best for biology or genetics graduates with a strong interest in plant molecular biology and advanced microscopy.
Overview
This fully funded 4-year PhD studentship at the University of East Anglia and the John Innes Centre investigates how long non-coding COOLAIR RNA molecules are spatially organised within plant cells during cold exposure and vernalization. The successful candidate will apply cutting-edge plant RNA imaging, advanced fluorescence microscopy, and quantitative image analysis to Arabidopsis cells. Working within an interdisciplinary environment alongside leading plant scientists, the student will uncover the mechanisms governing RNA localisation and gene regulation. The project provides comprehensive training in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and plant genetics.
What you'll do
- Visualise COOLAIR RNA within Arabidopsis cells using advanced fluorescence microscopy and cutting-edge plant RNA imaging techniques.
- Investigate the spatial organisation of different COOLAIR RNA isoforms under constant and fluctuating winter temperatures.
- Utilise natural genetic variation and specific mutants to uncover mechanisms controlling RNA localisation and transcription processing.
- Determine how RNA localisation influences FLC regulation and plant flowering behavior.
- Perform quantitative image analysis and bioinformatics tasks to interpret high-resolution imaging data.
- Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary team members across the John Innes Centre and partner institutions.
Requirements
Degree required: First-class, 2(i) or equivalent Honours degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Plant Science, Genetics or a related discipline.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; professional working proficiency required.
Instruction: English
- Strong foundational knowledge in molecular biology, plant science, genetics, or biochemistry.
- Experience or strong interest in molecular biology laboratory techniques and RNA biology.
- Capacity for quantitative data analysis and interdisciplinary research.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for collaborative research.
- Applicants must hold or expect to obtain a first-class, 2(i) or equivalent Honours degree in a relevant discipline.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Interested applicants are encouraged to make informal enquiries to Prof Yiliang Ding via email before submitting an application. Formal applications must be completed online through the university's postgraduate research application portal following the institutional guidelines.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter
Contact
Yiliang Ding· Professor
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