PhD Studentship: Understanding RNAi application for the control of cabbage stem flea beetle

Primary supervisor - Dr Rachel Wells

Insect pests represent a global threat to agricultural production, causing losses of up to 40%/annum. Historically, pesticides have limited crop loss, however, adverse environmental effects and impacts on non-pest species, coupled with increased resistance to chemical pesticides, have identified the need for targeted, sustainable solutions. The control of insect pests via RNAi offers an exciting new approach.

The cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB; Psylliodes chrysocephala) is an insect pest of Brassica crops, particularly oilseed rape (OSR; Brassica napus). The EU-wide ban on neonicotinoid usage (2018), coupled with pyrethroid resistance, has contributed to a >60% reduction in UK OSR cropping area since 2013. Specific RNA based products have been shown to cause up to 76% beetle mortality upon feeding (Ceddan et al., 2022, 2024, Guo et al., 2023). However, loss of efficacy can occur from variation in RNA efficiency, adjuvant formulation, application methodology and environment. Understanding the factors related to effective silencing is key for the development of novel controls.

In collaboration with CRODA, JIC have developed RNA based product testing systems. Using our captive CSFB colony and CRODAs application development knowledge, the student will progress the understanding of the mechanism and efficacy of RNA based formulations to support the development of targeted pest control.

They will join a collaborative research team, in the Wells and Morris labs, experienced in working on Brassica crops, supported by CRODAs experienced chemists. Tailored training will be provided, depending on background and interests. Key skills developed will include experimental design, statistical analysis, entomology, plant husbandry, molecular biology, RNA-seq analysis, RNAi, formulation chemistry and commercial product testing, providing a comprehensive skill set. A secondment with CRODA (at least 3 months) will provide experience in industry laboratories and commercial research. Placement is via flexible arrangement and does not have to be taken as one block of time.

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 and 6.0 in each component).

Mode of study

Full-time

Start date

1 October 2026

Additional Funding Information

This four-year studentship is funded by an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Industrial Doctoral Landscape Award in collaboration with commercial partner CRODA, a global speciality chemical manufacturer focussed on delivering sustainable, high-performance ingredients, often using bio-based raw materials.

Funding will include tuition fees paid directly to University of East Anglia, an annual tax-free stipend to support living expenses in line with UKRI minimum rates (currently £20,780 for 2025/26) plus an additional £2,500 p.a. stipend enhancement, and a Research Training Support Grant for additional training, consumables and equipment costs for your project as well as attendance at conferences.

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