RNA splicing regulation by RNA modifications (AKAY_U25DTP)

Primary Supervisor – Dr Alper Akay 

How do RNA modifications regulate gene expression in the germ cells? Our RNA (epi)genetics laboratory addresses this broad question using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as an animal model.  

Germline stem cells are essential for the survival of organisms by giving rise to offspring. Gene expression changes within the germ cells can affect embryonic development, and in some organisms, such changes are transgenerationally inherited. RNA is at the centre of many gene regulatory processes. There are currently more than 150 diverse chemical modifications found on RNA, and a greater number of proteins are required for their synthesis and recognition. Recent discoveries have shown that RNA modifications can be dynamically regulated and they have been implicated in embryonic development, longevity, neurological diseases and cancers in humans and in animal models.  

The PhD project will focus on how snRNA modifications regulate isoform-specific gene expression. Our lab has shown that snRNA methylations can affect splice site choice during pre-mRNA splicing. The project will use molecular biology, genetics and RNA sequencing technologies to study how gene-specific splice site choice affects transcript isoform expression during C. elegans development.  

We offer a multidisciplinary and supportive research environment. The student will have a wide range of support to learn different techniques and will interact with national and international laboratories working on RNA modifications. The student will attend conferences, seminars and multiple cross-laboratory events. The student will be given internal and external mentorship and career development support. Our RNA (epi)genetics laboratory is funded by a prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship and provides generous resources and instruments. This project is particularly suitable for students interested in RNA biology, biochemistry and Oxford Nanopore sequencing. 

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

1st October 2025