Determining how widespread dimethylsulfoniopropionate production is in plants (MILLER_U25DTPR)
Key Details
- Application deadline
- 19/05/2025 (at midnight)
- Funding type
- Directly Funded (Home)
- Start date
- 1st October 2025
- Mode of study
- Full Time
- Programme type
- PhD
Project description
Primary Supervisor - Dr Ben Miller
Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is an anti-stress compound with key roles in global nutrient and sulfur cycling, signalling and climate. DMSP functions as an osmoprotectant, cryoprotectant, protectant against oxidative stress and a grazing deterrent in bacteria and marina algae. Few plants have been shown to produce DMSP and the role of this molecule in these species is unclear. However, we have recently discovered the key plant genes responsible for DMSP production and are therefore now able to determine the role of DMSP in plants. This project will investigate how widespread DMSP production is in plants. The student will use molecular and physiological approaches to understand the role of DMSP in plant stress tolerance and seed biology. The student will identify DMSP synthesis genes in different plants and test their function using different biochemical and analytical techniques, such as gas chromatography and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. The student will also measure expression of the genes in plants grown under different conditions using RT-qPCR. In the modern world, the ability to produce crops in sub-optimal saline/drought ridden environments, not currently suitable for agriculture, is of high importance. The student will spend time at both UEA and Kew to undertake this joint project, and have opportunities to attend international and national conferences. This joint PhD project will provide the student with training opportunities in plant stress physiology, seed biology, DMSP biochemistry and molecular genetics to determine the role of DMSP in different plants.
The Norwich Research Park (NRP) Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (DTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2025 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.
Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on either the 11th or 12th June 2025.
Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/
Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background.
Funding
This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) PhD studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2025/6 stipend rate: £20,780), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship.