PhD Studentship: Plant Temperature Signalling via Modulation of Small-RNA Signalling
Investigate how plants sense and adapt to temperature changes through chromatin modifications and gene silencing.
Best for:Best for biology graduates with a strong interest in plant molecular biology, genomics, and chromatin mechanisms.
Overview
This fully funded four-year PhD studentship at the John Innes Centre investigates the fundamental molecular mechanisms of plant temperature sensing and seasonal adaptation. Managed under the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme, the project explores how temperature sensitivity regulates gene silencing and plant development. The successful candidate will apply advanced techniques in single-cell analysis, genomics, and molecular biology. In addition to rigorous scientific training, the candidate will complete a mandatory three-month professional internship placement.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research investigating plant temperature sensitivity and gene silencing mechanisms
- Apply cutting-edge techniques in genomics, molecular biology, and single-cell analysis
- Analyze complex datasets relating to chromatin modifications and seasonal plant development
- Participate in comprehensive professional development and research skills training programs
- Complete a three-month professional internship placement during the course of the studentship
- Present research findings at group meetings, internal symposia, and external academic conferences
- Contribute to scientific publications and engage with the broader research community
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or international equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6 in each category, or Faculty of Science equivalent
Instruction: English
- Strong foundation in plant biology, molecular biology, or genetics
- Demonstrated academic excellence meeting UK 2:1 undergraduate standards
- Aptitude for laboratory experimentation and molecular techniques
- Ability to analyze biological data and critically evaluate scientific literature
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Open to candidates meeting standard UK research council eligibility criteria for doctoral training
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-30
Applicants must submit their application through the university postgraduate admissions portal using the designated programme application procedures. Candidates are required to use the bespoke templates provided on the NRPDTP website for their Personal and Research statements. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview following the initial evaluation phase.
- CV
- Personal statement
- Research statement
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
Steven Penfield· Primary Supervisor
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.