Mapping NAD(P)H redox circuits with organellar resolution using chemical biology approaches

About the Project

Cells rely on the reducing power of NADPH to protect against oxidative stress, power biosynthesis, and maintain protein homeostasis. While mitochondria are known to contain the highest cellular NADPH levels, how this reducing power is shared with other organelles— particularly the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)—remains one of the key open questions in modern cell biology.

This interdisciplinary PhD project will uncover how mitochondria act as central organisers of cellular redox metabolism. Using state-of-the-art genetically encoded biosensors (iNap and SoNar), the student will visualise and quantify NADPH and NADH/NAD⁺ dynamics in living cells with organelle-level resolution. By combining live-cell imaging, genetic manipulation, and quantitative analysis, the project will determine how mitochondrial redox metabolism supports ER function, especially during cellular stress.

The research sits at the interface of mitochondrial biology, chemical biology, and biophysics, offering training in advanced microscopy, biosensor technology, genome editing, and data-driven analysis. The project is embedded in a cross-college supervisory team with strong EPSRC funding links and international expertise.

This PhD is ideal for candidates interested in quantitative bioscience, metabolism, and interdisciplinary research, and provides a strong platform for careers in academia, industry, or advanced EPSRC-aligned research environments.