PhD Studentship: Engineering Fitness in Disease-Resistant Crops
Investigate programmable expression to overcome the growth-defence trade-off in disease-resistant crops using advanced biofoundry robotics.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in plant molecular biology or synthetic biology interested in crop improvement and automation.
Overview
This 4-year PhD studentship investigates how engineering biology can resolve the growth-defence trade-off in crops by precisely controlling gene expression. Based at the Earlham Institute and the University of East Anglia, the project focuses on soybean resistance locus Rhg1 to protect against potato cyst nematodes while avoiding negative impacts on root growth and yield. The successful candidate will leverage world-class automation robotics in the Earlham Biofoundry to build and test regulatory-part libraries. The role is part of a highly collaborative partnership involving the Grandellis Group and the Witek Group at 2Blades.
What you'll do
- Design and execute experiments to build and test regulatory-part libraries using automated robotics at the Earlham Biofoundry.
- Redesign Rhg1 constructs to enable programmable, tissue-specific expression of disease-resistance genes.
- Evaluate engineered plants for disease resistance against potato cyst nematodes, root architecture, and tuber yield.
- Collaborate closely with researchers across the Earlham Institute and the Witek Group at 2Blades.
- Engage with training and professional development activities through the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership.
Requirements
Degree required: BSc or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English
Instruction: English
- Background in plant molecular biology, synthetic biology, or a related discipline
- Interest in automated DNA assembly and biofoundry technologies
- Capacity for collaborative research within a multidisciplinary environment
- Open to applicants eligible for the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership studentship
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Candidates must submit their application through the university's postgraduate research application portal. Ensure all required academic transcripts and supporting documents are provided before the deadline.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter
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