Primary Supervisor – Dr. Stefan Pedulla

Scientific background

Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) is a stress molecule produced by marine organisms such as phytoplankton, algae, coral, and some plants. It is broken down into dimethyl sulfide (DMS) gas by marine bacteria, providing the distinctive sea scent. However, DMS also has a direct impact on climate change by promoting the formation of climate-cooling clouds that reflect sunlight back into space.

There is increasing evidence that fungi can also convert DMSP to DMS but the reasons behind this are unknown. This has raised some important questions. Did fungi acquire this ability from bacteria by gene transfer, or did they develop mechanisms to degrade DMSP? Is the interaction of fungi with marine plants symbiotic or pathogenic? What impact does this have on the global climate? The appointed Graduate Researcher (PGR) will pioneer research that understands this process in marine fungi and assess the contribution of these understudied organisms to climate change.

Research methodology

The PGR will conduct field work to identify and measure the abundance of fungi that break down DMSP, or produce DMSP themselves. They will use cutting-edge molecular techniques and generate gene knockouts to identify new enzymes and pathways involved in this process. Finally, PGR will use plant infection models and high-resolution microscopy to determine the effect of DMSP use on fungal colonization and invasion.

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PGR will join a vibrant and supportive laboratory group with a broad range of experience from master’s level to postdoctoral level. They will receive hands-on training in fluorescence microscopy, fungal culture, transcriptomics, next-generation sequencing, molecular microbiology, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and gas chromatography. Advice will be provided on scientific communication, writing, and data analysis. Presentation of data at national and international conferences is encouraged and the PGR will have access to the wider network of the Center for Microbial Interactions at the University of East Anglia which consists of over 200 researchers studying all kingdoms of life.

Person specifications

We are looking for an enthusiastic and curious individual with a background in a subject aligned with biological sciences, molecular biology, microbiology or genetics.

Entry requirements

At least a UK BA (Hons) equivalency of 2:1. English language requirements (Faculty of Science equivalent: IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category).

Acceptable first degree: Subject aligned with biological sciences, molecular biology, microbiology or genetics.

Study method

Full time

Start date

October 1, 2026

Financing information

ARIES Scholarships are governed by UKRITerms and Conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded scholarship, which covers fees, a maintenance stipend (£20,780 per annum for 2025/26) and a Research Training and Support Grant (RTSG). A limited number of scholarships are available to international applicants, with the difference between ‘national’ and ‘international’ fees waived by the registered university. However, please note that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with moving to and living in the UK, such as visa costs or additional health fees.