Genetic network controlling somatic embryogenesis and pluripotency in Kalanchoë

About the Project

How a cell determines its fate is one of the longstanding and fundamental questions in Biology. Compared with animal cells, plant cells demonstrate incredible plasticity in terms of cell fate changes. A differentiated plant somatic cell can be triggered to de-differentiate and to regain its pluripotency. Despite the potential agricultural impact and fundamental biological importance of this phenomenon, research on “triggered pluripotency” has been left largely unexplored in plants. Kalanchoë (Mother of thousands) species propagate asexually by forming baby plants (plantlets) on the edge of leaves. During plantlet formation, somatic cells in the leaf margin change their cell fate and regain pluripotency to form plantlets. However, little is known about the underlying molecular and genetic mechanisms and cues triggering such a cell fate change during plantlet initiation.

The main aim of this project is to unravel the molecular genetic mechanisms involved in the plantlet initiation. Specifically, you will investigate the role of the embryogenesis regulators during this process. First, you will determine when and where the plantlet initiation occurs using a combination of state-of-the-art technologies. Then you will investigate the role of key embryogenesis genes during plantlet formation by inhibiting the pathways. You will also perform laser capture microdissection (LCM) and RNA-Seq to identify key regulators and pathways and to build an integrated model of this process. The multidisciplinary approaches used in this project will deliver novel insights into how biochemical, biophysical and specific molecular components cooperate to trigger pluripotency and initiate plantlet development, which can be used to explain broader developmental processes. As such, this project will provide a broad training in cutting-edge techniques in plant molecular sciences and allow you to make a substantive contribution to important developmental processes underlying food security.

Eligibility

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area/subject. A life science undergraduate/master’s degree in disciplines such as Plant Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology or Genetics. Candidates with experience in non-model plant species or with an interest in biotechnology improving crops are encouraged to apply.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.

How to Apply

To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form – on the application form select PhD GeneticsProgramme. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Website: How to apply for postgraduate research at The University of Manchester

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 2 (medium) fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website