Faculty of Science

Application Deadline: 21^st June 2013. This studentship is available to start 1^st October 2013.

Supervisory Team: Primary: Professor Vincent Moulton

The Project:

The discovery of small RNAs (sRNAs) in plants and animals has revolutionised our knowledge gene regulation. However, although much progress has been made on certain small RNAs and their targets (such as microRNAs), very little is known about genome-wide scale sRNA regulatory networks. In this project, the student will work together with a unique combination of world-class experts in bioinformatics, genomics and sRNAs with the aim of identifying, validating and visualising regulatory interaction networks of sRNAs and their target genes. This will build on recent work developed in Moulton’s group on genome-wide target identification and validation using the “degradome”. The student will work on developing algorithms and computer programs for identifying sRNAs regulatory interaction networks in plants with Prof. Vincent Moulton (UEA), Prof. Tamas Dalmay (UEA) and Dr. Mario Caccamo (The Genome Analysis Centre), as well interacting with biologists at University of East Anglia and the John Innes Centre. In addition, new methods will be developed for dectecting microRNAs .A background in computer science or a related discipline is required including good programming skills, but a prior knowledge of biology is not necessary.

Entry Requirements: A first or upper second class degree in Computing Sciences or an equivalent area.

Funding:

Funding will cover home/EU fees and an annual stipend (at standard RCUK rate). Due to funding restrictions overseas students will be required to pay the difference between home/EU and overseas fees.

Making your Application:

Please apply via the University’s online application system.

To discuss the application process please contact the Admissions Office, email: pgr.enquiries.admiss@uea.ac.uk; telephone +44 (0)1603 591709.