Summary
The University of Exeter is offering a funded PhD studentship at the Living Systems Institute to investigate how marine phytoplankton utilize bacterial genes for organic nitrogen acquisition. This research aims to understand the spread of this capability across plankton lineages and its impact on global biogeochemical cycles and nutrient budget assessments.
PhD Studentship: Evolution and Spread of a Bacterial Gene for Organic Nitrogen Acquisition in Marine Phytoplankton, University of Exeter, UK
Designation
PhD Doctoral Researcher
Key Information
| Institution | University of Exeter |
| Department | Biosciences – Living Systems Institute |
| Location | Exeter, UK (with placements in Bristol) |
| Qualification | PhD |
| Funding | Home tuition fees + Annual tax-free stipend |
| Eligibility | UK and International Students |
| Closing Date | 7th January 2027 |
Research Area
The project focuses on Marine Biology, Phylogenomics, Biogeochemistry, and Ecosystem Modelling. Specifically, it explores the horizontal gene transfer from bacteria to phytoplankton and its role in ocean nitrogen budgets.
Eligibility/Qualification
This studentship is open to both UK and International students. Candidates should ideally possess a strong academic background in Biosciences, Biochemistry, Marine Science, or a related computational field. For eligible students, the award covers home tuition fees and provides a tax-free stipend for living expenses.
Scholarship Description
Ocean nitrogen budgets currently rely on nitrate, ammonium, and urea. Recent discoveries show that marine phytoplankton can grow on a small nitrogen compound previously considered a bacterial toxin, using an enzyme acquired via horizontal gene transfer. This project will address:
- How this trait spread across various plankton lineages and ocean regions.
- The seasonal variation of this compound’s concentration in coastal waters.
- The impact of including this nitrogen pool in ecosystem models for nutrient budget and eutrophication risk assessment.
Methodology and Training
The researcher will utilize a multidisciplinary approach, including:
- Phylogenomics: Mapping the trait using global metagenome and metatranscriptome archives (Tara Oceans, Bio-GO-SHIP).
- Analytical Chemistry: LC-MS/MS quantification of compounds in coastal time-series samples.
- Molecular Genetics: Isotope-labelled growth experiments and CRISPR knockout diatoms.
- Modelling: Implementation of findings into trait-based ecosystem models using high-performance computing.
Training will be provided at the University of Exeter (molecular genetics, metabolite quantification) and the University of Bristol (modelling and parameter estimation).
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official University of Exeter recruitment portal or the jobs.ac.uk listing. Ensure you reference the project code 6060 during your application.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for applications is 7th January 2027.
Apply Link
