Exploring Effector Protein Mechanisms in Phytopathogenic Oomycetes
We seek a motivated PhD student with a strong background in molecular and cell biology to investigate how phytopathogenic Oomycetes translocate and utilize membrane-associated effector proteins to manipulate the plant endomembrane system, enabling disease development. This project will focus on Phytophthora infestans, the pathogen behind the Irish potato famine, and include Phytophthora cinnamomi, responsible for root rot.
Our previous research revealed that a conserved set of effector proteins localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in planta, interacting with membrane-associated proteins to influence infection outcomes. This project aims to advance molecular insights for developing sustainable food production systems.
Applicants must have expertise in molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, transient expression in plants), confocal microscopy, and a minimum IELTS overall score of 7 (or comparable). Experience in protein modeling and CRISPR applications in plants is advantageous.
Applications are invited for the following open PhD positions:
To apply, hit the Apply Now button for the project you are interested in, and attach to the email
1) Your Curriculum Vitae, and
2) A cover letter indicating your suitability for the position.
Applications will close at 5pm on Sunday 12 January
2025 New Zealand time.
Unfilled projects will remain visible on this page until 31 January 2025 or until a suitable candidate is found. The cohort will begin their PhD studies on 1 July 2025.
To be eligible for the PhD position, you must meet the entry criteria for a doctoral programme at the university where the primary supervisor is based (listed for each project below).
PhD positions come with a scholarship that pays study fees plus a $32,000 NZD per annum tax-free living stipend for three years. Students must be domiciled in the Canterbury region during their studies, so that they can engage in the cohort programme.
Based at: University of Canterbury
Supervisors
Dr Claudia Meisrimler - University of Canterbury
Dr Yangei Zhou - Plant & Food Research
Dr Hayley Ridgway - Plant & Food Research
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