Ticking clocks, thriving crops: Developing climate-resilient crops through circadian biology. (DODD_J24DTP)

Climate change poses a significant threat to our food supply, but you can be part of the solution! In this groundbreaking research project, we’re investigating how plants adapt to changing seasons and temperatures, with a focus on ensuring robust crop production despite environmental challenges.

You’ll explore the fascinating world of circadian rhythms and their role in shaping the life cycle of winter-grown crops. Using Arabidopsis plants as a model, you’ll gain unprecedented insights into how plants respond to seasonal cycles and climate change at a molecular level. You’ll achieve this using a new, unique facility at the John Innes Centre to study physiology, development and gene expression in simulated future climates.

By joining us for a PhD, you’ll work within our circadian biology research group to contribute meaningful research that addresses challenges with a deep impact in food security, for present and future generations. You’ll also develop a broad range of valuable skills and expertise that are applicable to diverse career paths.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be at the forefront of innovative plant science, and help shape the future of agriculture. Working in the laboratory of Professor Antony Dodd, in collaboration with Professor Steve Penfield, you’ll conduct world-class research to mitigate the impact of climate change on food production, forging a path towards a greener, more resilient world.

The Norwich Research Park (NRP) Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (DTP) is offering fully-funded studentships for October 2024 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. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. 

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will potentially be interviewed on the 14 or 15 August 2024.

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.