The mechanistic and physiological significance of Hfq in bacterial sRNA regulation of greenhouse gas emissions (ROWLEY_U25DTP)

Primary Supervisor – Dr Gary Rowley 

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a major greenhouse gas, with 300-fold greater warming potential than carbon dioxide. A major source of N2O comes from soil microbes utilising nitrogen-based fertilisers rather than oxygen to breathe in a process called denitrification. The final step in denitrification, the reduction of N2O to N2, is carried out by the enzyme nitrous oxide reductase, NosZ. However, NosZ does not always work in natural environments, and we know that denitrifying organisms make a substantial contribution to N2O emissions. An expanding global population means fertiliser use will increase to meet food demands. Without intervention this will lead to increased N2O emissions. 

Our understanding of the “how” and “when” denitrification is switched on and off in bacteria is relatively poor. Our team have made significant contributions to the understanding of regulation of bacterial denitrification including the role of small, non-coding, RNAs (sRNAs). sRNAs have critical roles in regulation of a multitude of physiological processes in bacteria. We published the first evidence that manipulation of sRNAs impacts N2O emissions. 

We seek an enthusiastic individual with a background in microbiology to join the team. We will combine a range of microbial physiology, molecular and functional genomics approaches to understand the contribution of the RNA chaperone Hfq, and associated sRNAs, to regulation of denitrification in the model bacteria Paracoccus denitrificans. 

Comprehensive training will be provided in all areas. The successful individual will have the opportunity to visit the lab our of collaborators in Oslo. Professional and personal development of all members of the Rowley laboratory is a major priority, and the team are supported to attend a diverse range of internal and external courses. Presentation of results at international conferences will be an important aspect of the training provided. 

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Programme (NRPDTP) is offering fully funded studentships for October 2025 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. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP CASE students undertake a three to 18-month placement with the non-academic partner during their study. The placement offers experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second-class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply. 

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on 28, 29 or 30 January 2025. 

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: 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. 

Entry requirements

At least UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or UK equivalence Master’s degree. English Language requirement (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category). 

Mode of study

Full time

Start date

1 October 2025