PhD Studentship: Endosymbiosis-Mediated Regulation of Nuclear Calcium Signalling
Explore molecular calcium signalling in plant-endosymbiont partnerships to improve crop nutrition and agricultural sustainability.
Best for:Best for biology graduates with a strong background in plant science, molecular genetics, or cell biology seeking a comprehensive doctoral training programme.
Overview
The University of East Anglia and the John Innes Centre are offering a fully funded four-year PhD studentship starting in October 2027 through the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme. The research investigates how plants communicate with beneficial soil microbes to optimize nutrient uptake through novel root endosymbiosis signalling pathways. The successful candidate will employ advanced cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and proteomics techniques within an international research environment. In addition to rigorous scientific training, the student will complete a mandatory three-month professional internship placement to develop broader career skills.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent laboratory research combining cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and proteomics.
- Investigate molecular calcium signalling mechanisms involved in plant root endosymbiosis.
- Characterize novel signalling pathways that activate and enhance root endosymbiosis with beneficial microbes.
- Collaborate with an enthusiastic, multidisciplinary team within a vibrant international scientific community.
- Participate in comprehensive professional development training provided by the doctoral training partnership.
- Complete a mandatory three-month professional internship placement during the course of the studies.
- Prepare research findings for publication and present results at scientific meetings.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 degree or UK equivalence in a relevant scientific discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6 in each category
Instruction: English
- Strong foundation in plant biology, cell biology, or molecular genetics
- Demonstrated ability to perform laboratory research using standard biological techniques
- Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities
- Capacity to work effectively within an international collaborative team
- Open to applicants meeting academic entry standards without regard to gender, nationality, or background
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Candidates must submit their application through the university's online postgraduate research application portal. Applicants are required to use bespoke templates for their Personal and Research statements provided on the NRPDTP website. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews scheduled in February 2027.
- CV
- Personal statement
- Research statement
- Transcripts
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