Where to cross over? Interrogating meiotic crossover positioning via chromosome engineering

One fully-funded PhD project is available in the School of Biology. We invite applications from prospective postgraduate researchers who wish to commence study for a PhD in the academic year 2025/26. The ideal candidate will have a background in molecular (plant) biology and genetics, as well as experience in bioinformatics. A keen interest in chromosomal biology, genetics and crop breeding are essential.  

<h5>Background </h5> <p>During sexual reproduction, parental chromosomes swap DNA segments in a process called crossover, which is a key driver for evolution and crop breeding. Importantly, crossovers are uneven along chromosomes and occur in hotspots, leaving large proportions of chromosomes crossover-suppressed. As a result, obtaining desired combinations of agronomically valuable traits is a lengthy process, representing a major limitation in crop breeding.  </p> <h5>Aim </h5> <p>This project seeks to identify the factors that determine crossover hotspots in plant chromosomes.  </p> <h5>Importance of Research  </h5> <p>Deciphering molecular mechanisms behind crossover hotspot positioning will lead to a fundamental breakthrough and agricultural innovation.  </p> <h5>What will the successful applicant do? </h5> <p>In collaboration with a leading chromosome engineering lab in Germany, we have inverted two chromosomal segments in the model plant Arabidopsis. These inversions have shifted three known crossover hotspots to new positions, providing a unique opportunity to study the factors influencing crossover distribution. The project consists of three stages. The first stage will be to test whether inverting chromosome segments has affected the epigenomes, as epigenetic factors play a role in crossover regulation. The second stage will be to test whether relocating the crossover hotspots has impacted their crossover frequencies. The third stage will be to evaluate if the inversions have influenced crossover patterns along the engineered chromosomes.</p> <h5>Training provided  </h5> <p>The student will receive comprehensive training in molecular genetics including cutting-edge techniques such as genome-wide epigenetic profiling, next generation sequencing, fine-scale, genome-wide and high-throughput crossover profiling. This project provides an excellent foundation for a career in plant genetics, molecular biology, or crop science.</p> <h5>References</h5> <ol> <li>doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-18277-z</li> <li>doi: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6750-6_2</li> <li>doi: 10.1101/gad.270876.115</li> </ol>

<p>To apply for this scholarship opportunity applicants should complete an<a href="https://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>a short statement (500 words maximum) describing your interest in this research area</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> <li>Please state "Faculty Funded Scholarship" when asked for source of funding</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</em></p>

Applicants to this scholarship 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 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.

<p>This scholarship is funded by the Faculty of Biological Sciences. The scholarship will provide academic fees at the UK rate, as well as a stipend matching the UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25) for a maximum of 3.5 years. Due to limited funding we can only consider applicants eligible to pay academic fees at the UK fee rate.</p>

<p>For further information about this project please contact Dr Natasha Yelina:</p> <p>e: <a href="mailto:N.Yelina@leeds.ac.uk">N.Yelina@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about the admissions process please contact the FBS PGR Admissions Team<br /> e: <a href="mailto:fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk">fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>