PhD Studentship – How Do Circadian Clocks Communicate Between Plants and Bacteria?
University of East Anglia
Norwich, England, United Kingdom
General Description –
The University of East Anglia (UEA) invites applications for an interdisciplinary PhD studentship that aims to understand the mechanisms by which circadian clocks communicate between plants and their associated bacteria. Hosted within the School of Biological Sciences, this doctoral research opportunity will explore how daily rhythm-generating systems in plants and microbes synchronise and influence each other at molecular and ecological levels. Studentship projects will delve into circadian biology of both hosts and microbes, investigating signalling pathways and temporal coordination that underlie rhythmic interactions in plant-microbe systems. The successful candidate will join a collaborative research environment with access to UEA’s research facilities and expertise in chronobiology and microbial ecology. The studentship is funded for a full doctoral programme and includes research training designed to build expertise in circadian biology, plant–microbe interactions and relevant experimental approaches.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold, or be about to obtain, a relevant undergraduate or master’s degree suitable for entry into a PhD programme in biological sciences or a closely related field such as plant biology, microbiology, molecular biology or ecology.
Candidates must meet the University of East Anglia’s standard entry requirements for doctoral research degrees.
An interest in circadian biology, plant-microbe interactions or related research areas is expected.
Required expertise/skills
Strong academic grounding in biological sciences, with coursework and/or research experience relevant to circadian biology, plant physiology, microbial ecology or molecular approaches to biological rhythms.
Practical laboratory experience in microbiology, plant biology or molecular biology techniques is desirable.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research setting, demonstrating motivation and intellectual curiosity.
Effective verbal and written communication skills appropriate to scientific environments.
Salary details –
The studentship includes a UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)-standard tax-free stipend (estimated at ~£20,780 for 2025/26) and full payment of UK tuition fees for the duration of the programme, as per typical UK PhD studentship funding arrangements.
Application Deadline –
Applications must be submitted by Wednesday 8 April 2026.