PhD in Biology - Developing novel insecticidal proteins for crop protection
Explore novel insecticidal proteins to develop sustainable crop protection methods. Use molecular biology and toxicity testing techniques while collaborating with industry leaders. Contribute to reducing chemical pesticide reliance by pioneering bio-based alternatives.
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Project Description
Project Overview
Undertake a cutting-edge PhD research project at the University of York’s prestigious Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP), focused on one of the most pressing challenges in agriculture: effective and sustainable pest control. You will characterise newly identified insecticidal proteins and evaluate their potential as an environmentally friendly, bio-based solution for protecting crops against major agricultural pests, in collaboration with Syngenta.
What You Will Do
- Recombinant protein production: Use advanced molecular biology techniques to produce recombinant insecticidal proteins in the lab, using state-of-the-art chromatography techniques.
- Physico-chemical characterisation: Study purified proteins with advanced physico-chemical methods to determine protein purity, oligomeric state, and structure-function properties.
- Toxicity testing: Evaluate insecticidal potential through in vivo toxicity assays using model insect species and real agricultural pests, measuring mortality, developmental disruption, and behavioural effects to gain insight into mode of action.
Expected Outcomes
Your research will contribute to the development of sustainable pest control strategies, reducing reliance on chemical insecticides and promoting environmental health. You will work in an interdisciplinary team leveraging CNAP’s world-class facilities and collaborate with Syngenta to enhance the research impact.
Why This Matters
The study promotes environmentally friendly crop protection by exploring bio-based insecticidal proteins. This addresses global agricultural challenges by potentially replacing harmful chemical insecticides, fostering ecological balance and food security.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Dr Federico Sabbadin leads this project at the University of York’s Centre for Novel Agricultural Products. His research focuses on molecular biology and structural elucidation of proteins with applications in agriculture and biotechnology. Dr Sabbadin is known for his expertise in protein biochemistry and developing bio-based solutions to agricultural challenges.