PhD studentships

Location

This studentship will be based at the Streatham Campus, Exeter

BBSRC Systems Biology PhD Studentship

A three-year studentship, covering tuition fees (UK/EU only) and an annual maintenance allowance at current research council rate, is available in one of the following areas:

Dynamics and evolution of biological networks in plant-parasite interactions

This project aims to achieve a system level understanding of molecular interactions between Arabidopsis thaliana and one of its pathogens Pseudomonas syringae. Further project details and academic contacts for informal enquiries are available.

From population dynamics to genes via life histories, and back again

This project will use environmental inputs to force qualitatively different patterns of population dynamics in bacterial chemostats to identify genes with major influences on phenotypes and impact up to the level of population dynamics and ecosystem function. Further project details and academic contacts for informal enquiries are available.

The nitrogen and carbon sensing network in cyanobacteria

Cyanobacteria sense and respond to their nitrogen supply and their carbon/nitrogen ratio. This project aims to understand the regulatory and metabolic network that balances C and N metabolism in Synechocystis, in particular how short and longer term fluctuations are distinguished. Further project details and academic contacts for informal enquiries are available.

Deadline for applications

16 July 2010

Application criteria

These projects involve both theoretical and experimental skills and knowledge. The successful candidate will have both an experimental and theoretical supervisor. Candidates are expected to have demonstrable expertise in some aspects related to the above project areas and be motivated in expanding their skill set and working at the interface of biology and computational/mathematical biology.

Applicants should have at least a 2.1 Honours degree, or equivalent qualifications, with either a mathematical or a biochemical focus and fulfill BBSRC eligibility criteria.

How to apply

In order to apply you will need to complete an online form where you must submit some personal details and upload a full CV, covering letter, and contact details for two academic referees. Your covering letter should outline your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake a PhD at the University of Exeter. For general enquiries please contact Sarah Mudge. Interview dates will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates.