PhD Studentship: Deciphering Calcium Signalling Pathways in Root Legume Endosymbiosis

Primary supervisor - Dr Myriam Charpentier

Are you passionate about plant biology, endosymbiosis, system biology or bioengineering? Join a cutting-edge research project exploring how plants communicate with beneficial soil microbes to enhance nutrient uptake and resilience. This project aims to uncover key molecular calcium signalling mechanisms at the heart of plant-endosymbiont partnerships, with exciting implications for future crop improvement and environmental sustainability.

By combining state-of-the-art technics in cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and proteomic, this project aims at characterizing a novel signalling pathway that modulates root endosymbiosis. The insights gained will provide unique knowledge to develop strategies for enhancing root endosymbiosis and, thus, optimising plant nutrition, while promoting long-term agricultural sustainability.

To achieve this, the student will be part of an enthusiastic and collegial team within a vibrant international and scientific community, supported by cutting-edge research facilities and excellent training opportunities.

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2026 entry. The programme offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 3,4 or 5 February 2026.

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/.

Entry requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

To maximise accessibility and attract students from underrepresented groups to our programme we have introduced bespoke templates for applicant Personal and Research statements which will enable every applicant to fully represent themselves through providing suitable examples and evidence. These forms are on the NRPDTP website and must be used for these sections of the application form.

Mode of study: Full time

Start date: 1 October 2026

Additional Funding Information

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD CASE studentship with Inspiralis Limited. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2025/6 stipend rate: £20,780), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship.

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