PhD Studentship: Endosymbiosis-Mediated Regulation of Nuclear Calcium Signalling

Overview

This 4-year PhD research project focuses on endosymbiosis-mediated regulation of nuclear calcium signalling. The student will join an enthusiastic and collegial team within an international scientific community at the John Innes Centre, part of the University of East Anglia. The work combines techniques in cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and proteomics to characterize a novel signalling pathway that activates root endosymbiosis. The overarching goal is to generate knowledge for enhancing plant nutrition and agricultural sustainability.

Who can apply

Applicants must hold at least a UK equivalence Bachelors Honours 2:1 degree. Candidates must also meet the English Language requirement, which corresponds to a Faculty of Science equivalent of IELTS 6.5 overall with 6 in each category. Selection for admission is conducted without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age, or social background.

What you get

The position provides a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD DTP studentship starting on 1 October 2027. The award covers tuition fees paid directly to the university and includes a stipend for living expenses at the 2026/27 rate of £21,805 per annum. Additionally, a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000 per annum is provided for each year of the studentship. Students also undertake a three-month professional internship placement during their studies.

Requirements

Applicants are required to use bespoke templates for the Personal and Research statements found on the Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme website to provide examples and evidence.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-11-30. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 2, 3, and 4 February 2027. The programme start date is 1 October 2027.