Dissecting the mechanisms of specialised ribosomes

Specialised ribosomes are groups of ribosomes that regulate the translation of specific mRNA pools and represent a new regulatory mechanism in gene expression. This concept is relatively new but changes in ribosomal protein, and rRNA modifications have been characterised to impact various steps in translation including mRNA selection, initiation, elongation dynamics and co-translational folding. Although different populations of ribosomes exist within cells, it has so far been challenging to profile differences in their activity.<br /> <br /> We have already characterised ribosome heterogeneity and specialisation in the Drosophila testis, during KSHV infection and in Arabidopsis. We are using a combination of interdisciplinary approaches to dissect the mechanisms, including molecular biology, genetics, cryo-EM, mass spectrometry, ribosome profiling and long read direct-RNA-Sequencing. We also hope to incorporate in situ cryo-electron tomography to understand how sub-cellular localisation contributes to specialisation.

<p><strong>Aim</strong>: To understand mechanistically how changes in ribosome composition enable translational regulation of specific mRNAs.</p> <p><strong>Expected Outcomes</strong>: Overall, this programme of research will allow us to unravel precisely how ribosome heterogeneity results in specialisation. Key outcomes will be to cluster ribosomes with specific specializations near specific organelles, or in specific translational states, for example monosomes vs polysomes. This will enable us to dissect the cellular biological functions and mechanistic details of specialisation, in the context of subcellular localisation and translational dynamics.</p> <p><strong>Impact</strong>: In addition to advancing our knowledge of gene expression, our findings have the potential to impact our understanding of several human diseases. For example, ribosomopathies – including Diamond-Blackfan anaemia – are caused by mutations in ribosomal proteins, and it has been suggested that specialised ‘oncoribosomes’ might be involved in protein synthesis dysregulation in cancers. Additionally, understanding mechanisms of ribosome specialisation will enable the modulation ribosome translation in future medical, agricultural and biotechnological applications.</p> <p>The successful student will join an interdisciplinary team studying mechanisms of translational regulation by specialised ribosomes “RiboCode”. For more information in this wider project and team: <a href="https://ribocode.org/">https://ribocode.org/</a></p>

<p>To apply for this scholarship opportunity applicants should complete an <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">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 scholarship 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>For source of funding please state you are applying for an FBS faculty-funded Scholarship</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 scholarship in the School of Molecular & Cellular 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. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Admissions Team prior to making an application.

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.

<p>We are offering 1 full-time PhD scholarship in the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology for one UK candidate, covering a maintenance grant matching the UKRI maintenance stipend (£21,805 in 2026/27) and UK tuition fees for 3.5 years. The award will be made for one year in the first instance and renewable for a further period of up to two and a half years, subject to satisfactory academic progress.</p> <ul> <li>Applicants must not have already been awarded or be currently studying for a doctoral degree</li> <li>Awards must be taken up by 1^st October 2026</li> <li>Applicants must live within a reasonable distance of the University of Leeds whilst in receipt of this scholarship</li> </ul>

<p>For further information about the project, please contact Dr Julie Aspden: <a href="mailto:J.Aspden@leeds.ac.uk">J.Aspden@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about the admissions process, please contact the FBS PGR Admissions team: <a href="mailto:fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk">fbsgrad@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>