PhD Studentship in Engineering Biology for Gene Regulatory Networks

The University of East Anglia and the Earlham Institute offer a fully funded four-year PhD studentship focused on decoding gene regulatory networks during lateral root initiation. Working within the Guiziou Group, the successful candidate will combine cutting-edge DNA-based recorders and single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate plant development. The project provides comprehensive training in molecular biology, microscopy, automation, and bioinformatics within a collaborative research environment. The student will develop scientific independence while contributing to research aimed at improving sustainable agriculture.

• Build and optimise integrase-based genetic circuits in Arabidopsis to monitor gene expression dynamics.
• Utilise fluorescence microscopy to analyse engineered plant lines with high spatiotemporal resolution.
• Perform fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and single-cell RNA sequencing to identify founder cell states.
• Process and analyse genomic datasets to dissect gene regulatory networks underlying root initiation.
• Present research findings at international conferences and industry symposia.
• Shape the final direction of the project by demonstrating critical thinking and scientific independence.