Gene Editing to Improve Salt Tolerance in Legumes at Cranfield University

Studentship funding

Sponsored by Azolla Biotech Ltd., this PhD studentship will provide a stipend of £19,237 p.a. (tax free), plus fees (£12,286 p.a.) for three years. 

Type of opportunity

Fully-funded studentship – Opportunities which are fully funded (e.g. covers all fees and stipend) 

Eligibility & Related Project Details

Type of studentship: Industry-funded

Fee status of eligible applicants: UK

Duration of Award if full time preferred*: 3 years

Duration of Award if part time preferred: 6 years

1^st Supervisor: Dr Sofia Kourmpetli    

Main Copy (advised structure)

Soil salinization, occurring either naturally (through rainfall salt deposition or weathering of parent rock material) or as a result of anthropogenic activity (poor irrigation and land management practices, rising sea levels) poses a global challenge for crop production and is expected to intensify with projected climate change scenarios. Leguminous crops provide a valuable source of dietary fibre and protein for human and animal consumption and apart from being a staple in many parts of the developing world, they also provide key environmental and socioeconomic benefits. The natural symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their roots, means that not only they require lower amounts of synthetic fertilizers, but they can also substantially improve soil quality too. 

This project will employ advanced molecular genetics techniques to identify and manipulate key genes and pathways that confer salt tolerance in legumes, designing crops that can contribute to food security in vulnerable regions, while at the same time they enhance soil quality. 

With the support of Azolla Biotech Ltd. and Cranfield University the student will use CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation methods to genetically improve the resilience and yield of legume crops under saline conditions and test their performance under glasshouse conditions. 

The outcome of this project will have a significant contribution in improving food security and diet quality in areas were salinized soils limit agricultural production and affect smallholder farmer livelihoods.

The student will have the opportunity to present their findings in relevant national and international scientific conferences and benefit from excellent training opportunities at Cranfield. They will also be able to get involved in MSc teaching activities, through the co-supervision of MSc student projects.

Apart from developing their skills in plant molecular genetics, bioinformatics and tissue culture, during the course of their PhD they will also develop useful transferable skills, such as project management, written and oral communication and student supervision skills.

Entry requirements 

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit someone with a Plant Science, Crop Science, Genetics or a more general Biology background with an interest in molecular genetics and crop improvement.

Funding

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be classified as a home student.

How to apply