Molecular mechanism of plant organellar replication

Details

We invite applications for a PhD research project to study organellar protein-DNA interactions in plants. The projects will answer mechanistic questions about organellar genome duplication with downstream translational implications in developing better crops.

Chloroplast is arguably the most important organelle for sustaining life as it is the main hub of photosynthesis, the process by which sunlight is converted to biomass. Chloroplast has its own genome, which codes for several key proteins involved in photosynthesis. Thus, accurate replication of the chloroplast genome is vital for photosynthesis and thus for life on earth. Yet, our understanding of chloroplast replication is in its infancy. In this collaborative, inter-disciplinary project we will combine cryo-EM and enzyme kinetics (Lahiri lab https://sites.google.com/sheffield.ac.uk/lahirilab/) with structural bioinformatics (Chaudhuri lab, https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/people/academic-staff/roy-chaudhuri) and plant genetics (Casson lab, https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/people/academic-staff/stuart-casson) to develop the first comprehensive picture of chloroplast replication.

In addition to opening up a new dimension of understating of the fundamental process of organellar replication, insights gained from this work will aid downstream translational projects of chloroplast engineering to develop crops with better traits.

Science Graduate School

As a PhD student in one of the science departments at the University of Sheffield, you’ll be part of the Science Graduate School. You’ll get access to training opportunities designed to support your career development by helping you gain professional skills that are essential in all areas of science. You’ll be able to learn how to recognise good research and research behaviour, improve your communication abilities and experience the breadth of technologies that are used in academia, industry and many related careers. Visit http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/sgs to learn more.

Please apply for this project using this link: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying

Funding Notes

First class or upper second 2(i) in a relevant subject. To formally apply for a PhD, you must complete the University’s application form using the following link:

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying

All applicants should ensure that both references are uploaded onto their application as a decision will be unable to be made without this information.

References

https://sites.google.com/sheffield.ac.uk/lahirilab/

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/people/academic-staff/roy-chaudhuri

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/people/academic-staff/stuart-casson

https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.04.09.647933v1.full