ACCE+ DLA programme: Symbiosis in a thermally variable world

Background: Symbiotic interactions define the biology, ecology and evolution of animals and plants. This is particularly profound in insects, where microbes are core components of insect nutritional physiology, defence against natural enemies, desiccation tolerance and resistance to xenobiotics.

It is known that symbiotic interactions are sensitive to the thermal environment. Because extreme thermal events (both cold and heat) are becoming more common, it is important for us to understand how, and when, these impact these ecologically crucial partnerships.

Objectives: Thermal sensitivity of symbiotic interactions is known to exist, but its causes and persistence of impacts over time are poorly understood. Our core project aim is to examine the causes and drivers of thermal impacts in insect systems, with a focus on the otherwise well characterized symbioses in flies and aphids. We will examine, for instance:

-The impact of diurnal temperature shifts compared to constant temperature exposure. Previous research in this area has commonly used unrealistic thermally constant environments, that have poor real-world applicability particularly at higher latitudes.

-The extent to which the effects of thermal shocks are felt beyond the initial impact. In, we are interested in whether they are observed in the insect generations following the event.

-The involvement of phage activation in thermal sensitivity. Many symbionts carry prophage (latent virus) in their genomes, and it is known in medical microbiology that stress can induce viral activation and bacterial lysis and death. This interdisciplinary objective will meld the previously distinct fields of symbiosis and phage biology to test if symbiosis sensitivity is driven by virus activation.

The person: This project would suit students from an organismal biology background (e.g. zoology, ecology, environmental sciences, biological sciences) but may also be of interest to microbiologists with interests outside of biomedicine.

Training: We will provide training in insect husbandry and experimental design, core techniques for the detection and quantification of microbes within hosts, and assays of phage activity. You will benefit from research supervision across two insect symbiotic systems, as well as expertise in molecular microbiology. An External Placement opportunity with a partner organization, the Royal Horticultural Society, is also available.

How to Apply

Please see the ACCE website for all details of how to apply to the programme at each ACCE+ institution: https://accedtp.ac.uk/how-to-apply/. 

All applicants to ACCE+ must complete the ACCE+ personal statement proforma. This is instead of a personal/supporting statement or cover letter. The proforma is designed to standardise this part of the application to minimise the difference between those who are given support and those who are not. Candidates should also submit a CV and the contact details of two referees.

Part-Time Study Options

All ACCE+ PhDs are available as part time or full time, with part time being a minimum of 50% of full time. Please discuss potential part time arrangements with the primary supervisor before applying to the programme. 

Project CASE Status

This project is not a CASE project.