PhD Studentship: Signalling Mechanism Enhancing Root Nodule Symbiosis

Primary supervisor - Dr Myriam Charpentier

Nitrogen (N) acquisition is fundamental for plant growth. However, N is poorly available in soils, leading to extensive and costly chemical fertiliser applications. It is estimated that 50-70% of nitrogen-derived fertilizer provided to the soil is lost, giving rise to soil and water pollution as well as global warming through emissions of nitrous oxide. Lowering fertilizer input and breeding crops with better nitrogen use efficiency is one of the main goals of plant nutrition research. Soil microbes such as endosymbionts provide an important source of natural fertilizers for crops. Notably legume form root nodule symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria that improve their nitrogen uptake directly, and the nutrient uptake for subsequent crops indirectly by generating a soil-enhancing green manure. Thus, the use of root endosymbionts as natural sources of fertilizers can form part of the solution to reduce chemical fertilizer inputs. By combining the state-of-the-art technics in cell biology, genetics, molecular biology and proteomic, this project aims at characterizing a novel signalling pathway modulating root nodule symbiosis. The insights gained from this project will deliver unique knowledge to develop strategy aiming at enhancing root nodule symbiosis and, thus optimizing nitrogen nutrition, whilst ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability. To achieve this goal, the student will be part of an enthusiastic and collegial team within an international and vibrant scientific environment gathering cutting-edge research facilities and 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). 

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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