PhD Studentship: Root Oxygen Dynamics and Development

Supervisor: Vinay Shukla

Subject Area: Plant & Crop Science

Research Title: Root oxygen dynamics and development

The student will be part of a multidisciplinary effort to investigate the anatomical, physical and cellular factors that shape internal root environments. The project will explore how root organisation and environmental conditions combine to influence oxygen availability, and how these internal conditions vary across space and time. Depending on the student’s interests and skills, the project may involve a combination of:

• Experimental studies using model plant species to examine root oxygen status under contrasting environmental conditions.
• Application of imaging- and sensor-based approaches to visualise and quantify oxygen dynamics in roots and their surrounding environment.
• Analysis of how root tissue organisation and cellular connectivity influence internal microenvironments.
• Integration of experimental observations with quantitative or computational frameworks, developed in collaboration with partners with modelling expertise.
• This PhD offers the opportunity to work at the interface of plant physiology, root biology, imaging and quantitative analysis. The student’s work will provide key conceptual and experimental foundations that support other strands of the Breathing Underground project, while allowing scope to develop independent questions within the broader theme.

Award Start Date: 01/10/2026

Duration of Award: 48 months

This research studentship is only available to UK citizens and includes payment of tuition fees and a tax-free stipend based on current BBSRC rates.

Applicant Qualification Requirements

Applicants should be highly motivated, curious and keen to develop expertise at the interface of plant biology and quantitative analysis. Candidates should a Master’s degree, in Plant Science, Biology or a closely related discipline.
Experience or interest in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous (full training will be provided as required):
 • Plant physiology, root biology or plant–environment interactions.
 • Experimental approaches to studying internal plant environments or spatially structured biological processes.
 • Imaging, sensor-based measurements or quantitative data analysis.
 • Basic computational or programming skills, or a willingness to engage with modelling and data-driven approaches.
 Strong communication skills, enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to rigorous and reproducible science are essential.

Previous applicants need not apply.

How to Apply

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to get in touch to discuss the project and their suitability. Informal enquiries may be addressed to vinay.shukla@nottingham.ac.uk. Applications should be submitted by emailing a detailed CV and cover letter to vinay.shukla@nottingham.ac.uk by the stated closing date.

A complete application should include:
 A detailed CV, clearly outlining academic background, research experience and technical skills. Applicants are encouraged to highlight:
 o Relevant coursework, research projects, or thesis work.
 o Experience with experimental plant biology, physiology, imaging, sensors, or quantitative analysis (where applicable).
 o Any computational, data analysis or programming experience, including software or languages used.
 o Publications, preprints, conference presentations or posters (if available).
 o Names and contact details of two academic referees.
 A cover letter (typically 1–2 pages) explaining:
 o Motivation for applying to this PhD project.
 o Relevant experience and skills, and how these align with the project.
 o Research interests and career aspirations.
 o Why you are interested in working within the Breathing Underground programme and at the University of Nottingham.

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