PhD Studentship: Controlling Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Targeting G-quadruplex DNA/RNA Structures in Plant-associated Bacteria

Primary Supervisor: Dr. Andrew Gates

As well as carbon dioxide (CO2), other important climate-active gases are known to drive global

warming. Importantly, nitrous oxide (N2O) also known as laughing gas, is the third most abundant greenhouse gas with 300-times greater global warming power than CO2 and it also contributes to the destruction of the ozone layer. Production of N2O is a by-product of modern farming, where after applying fertilizers, soil bacteria consume nitrate and generate N2O that is emitted from soil to the atmosphere. By understanding how bacteria do this and developing tools to control it, we could potentially reduce future biological N2O emissions, allowing recovery of the ozone layer and help reduce global climate change while continuing to feed expanding global populations.

This PhD project will develop understanding of how DNA and RNA structures control nitrogen

assimilation and N2O production in plant-associated bacteria and how we can use small-molecules to control these pathways in cells. The project will provide training in a wide-range of state-of-the-art biophysical, molecular biology and microbiological techniques, from characterizing different types of DNA/RNA structures, gene expression studies to ligand-binding assays. Led by Dr Andrew Gates, this project will be based in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the student will work collaboratively with Dr Yiliang Ding at the John Innes Centre.

The student will have, or expect to obtain a first class, 2(i) or equivalent honours degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmacy or a related area.

Informal enquiries are welcomed; for further information please contact Dr Andrew Gates (a.gates@uea.ac.uk).

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.. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. 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 25 or 26 August 2026. 

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply. Please note the guidance for the programme Personal and Research Statements, which the programme template documents must be used in the application. https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background. 

To maximise accessibility and attract students from underrepresented groups to our programme we use 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 only and must be used for these sections of the application form. 

Entry Requirements: At least a 2:1 Bachelor's degree. 

Start Date: 1 October 2026

Funding Details 

This project is awarded with a 4-year Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership PhD DTP studentship. The studentship includes payment of tuition fees (directly to the University), a stipend to cover living expenses (2026/7 stipend rate: £21,805), and a Research Training Support Grant of £5,000pa for each year of the studentship.

Closing Date: 30 July 2026

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