PhD Studentship: Developing a New Understanding of Sulphur Cycling in Marine Bacteria

Primary Supervisor - Dr Matthew Sullivan

Background 

The microbial world is a fascinating network of organisms that live in our environment and play significant roles in regulating our climate. The molecule dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is an anti-stress compound made by plants, algae and bacteria, in the order of hundreds of millions of tonnes annually, worldwide. DMSP protects organisms from harsh conditions found in diverse ecological niches. There is huge diversity in bacteria that make and degrade DMSP, however precisely when and why they do this is not completely understood [1,2]. When DMSP is degraded, a climate-cooling gas called dimethylsulfide (DMS) is released that enters the atmosphere and forms cloud condensation nuclei, influencing atmospheric reflectivity and has vast potential to modulate the global climate [1]. A greater understanding of DMSP biology is of paramount importance for designing future strategies that exploit this molecule to reverse the effects of global warming.  

This project will be hosted in the School of Biological Sciences at UEA, one of the world’s foremost centres of excellence for DMSP research and will harnesses leading-edge genetic techniques to investigate bacterial DMSP synthesis and/or breakdown.  

Approach 

The goal is to identify new genetic systems involved in DMSP metabolism. The individual will use transposon-directed insertion sequencing [3,4,5] to identify entirely new genes, enzymes and pathways that act on DMSP in important marine alpha-proteobacteria. They will target genes for mutation and functional studies will incorporate analytical techniques such as HPLC and GC to identify metabolic intermediates. Their findings will contribute to our fundamental understanding of the biogeochemical cycling of sulfur in marine systems. 

Training 

The individual will learn techniques in environmental and molecular microbiology in the Sullivan and Todd microbiology research laboratories, including genetic manipulation, next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics, and biophysical analyses. There will be opportunities to present at internationally-leading conferences and access a network of global researchers. UEA’s post-graduate professional development team will provide support in enhancing translational skills. 

Applicant 

We seek an enthusiastic and highly motivated individual with willingness to learn new concepts in molecular biology and/or microbiology to join our vibrant and collegiate community, with relevant previous experience in the biological or environmental sciences disciplines. 

For further information, please visit www.aries-dtp.ac.uk

Funding Details

Additional Funding Information

ARIES is awaiting confirmation of funding under the BBSRC-NERC DLA award scheme, which is expected shortly. Funding for this studentship is subject to this confirmation and UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded ARIES studentship of fees, maintenance stipend (£19,237 p.a. for 2024/25) and research costs.

A limited number of ARIES studentships are available to International applicants. Please note however that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK.

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