PhD Studentship - Investigating the Influence of Temperature on Plant Meiosis (MORGANC_J26JS)

Primary supervisor - Dr Chris Morgan

Temperature has a striking effect on meiosis. Shifts in temperature can alter where and how often crossovers form, and extreme heat can disrupt meiosis entirely - reducing fertility and lowering crop yields. Yet, we still do not fully understand why meiosis is so temperature-sensitive. We recently proposed a new model in which crossover patterns are shaped by the “coarsening” behaviour of the conserved protein HEI10. Because coarsening is a physical process, it is likely to be strongly influenced by temperature, offering a promising explanation for long-observed changes in recombination under heat stress. In this PhD project, the student will investigate how temperature affects crossover patterning in plants and test whether shifts in HEI10 dynamics can explain changes in recombination rate and fertility. Working across cell biology, genetics, and biophysics, the student will help uncover the principles that make meiosis so responsive to environmental change. This research will deepen our understanding of temperature-sensitive reproduction and could ultimately guide new strategies to improve crop resilience in a warming world.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website.

Entry requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or UK equivalence Masters degree. 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

Funding

This PhD project is fully funded by the Royal Society for four years and is open to UK and International applicants. The successful candidate will receive tuition fees and an annual tax-free maintenance stipend starting at £22,350 in the first academic year.

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