Engineering plant cell walls and cell-to-cell communication

We are facing global concerns on food security, climate change and sustainability that require innovations to improve crop environmental resilience. Membranous channels (named plasmodesmata, PD) connect neighbouring plant cells mediating the transport of signalling proteins, hormones, metabolites and RNAs and coordinating developmental processes such as organ formation and responses to pathogens. Our vision is to dissect the components affecting plasmodesmata transport and specifically their surrounding cell walls. This project combines structural biology (super resolution microscopy and electron-microscopy), biomechanics (AFM-nanoindentation and automated confocal micro-extensometer) and biochemistry in the characterization of plasmodesmata structures in response to temperature, soil microbes and water deficit. The goal is to identify targets to modify the properties underpinning cell-to-cell connectivity and intercellular signalling which are linked to improvement of plant resilience to climate change.

<p>We welcome creativity and innovation and there is ample space for project co-creation by the student upon discussion of ideas and feasibility with the supervisory team.</p> <p>At the Benitez Alfonso, we strive for an equal, diverse and inclusive environment and care for your wellbeing. Please consult our core values and other information at <a href="https://benitezalfonsolab.leeds.ac.uk/">https://benitezalfonsolab.leeds.ac.uk/</a></p> <h5>References</h5> <ol> <li>Abou-Saleh RH, Hernandez-Gomez MC, Amsbury S, Paniagua C, Bourdon M, Miyashima S, Helariutta Y, Fuller M, Budtova T, Connell SD et al: Interactions between callose and cellulose revealed through the analysis of biopolymer mixtures. Nat Commun 2018, 9(1):4538.</li> <li>Kumari P, Ballone P, Paniagua C, Abou-Saleh RH, Benitez-Alfonso Y: Cellulose-Callose Hydrogels: Computational Exploration of Their Nanostructure and Mechanical Properties. Biomacromolecules 2024, 25(3):1989-2006.</li> <li>Amsbury S, et al., Benitez-Alfonso Y: Structural heterogeneity in β-1,3-glucans reveals distinct calloses in plant cell wall microdomains. Biorxv</li> </ol>

<p>To apply for this project opportunity applicants should complete an <a href="http://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/research-degrees/doc/how-to-apply">online application form</a> and attach the following documentation to support their application. </p> <ul> <li>a full academic CV</li> <li>degree certificate and transcripts of marks</li> <li>Evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (if applicable)</li> </ul> <p>To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;</p> <ul> <li>Select PhD in Biological Sciences as your programme of study</li> <li>Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert</li> </ul> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p>

Applicants to this project based in the School of Biology should normally have an Undergraduate degree of 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject area. A Master’s degree is desirable, but not essential.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>This project is open to applicants who have the funding to support their own studies or who have a sponsor who will cover these costs. </p>

<p>For enquiries about the project, please contact <a href="mailto:y.benitez-alfonso@leeds.ac.uk">y.benitez-alfonso@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For information about the application process please contact the Faculty Admissions Team: <a href="mailto:fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk">fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>