Boosting C4 photosynthesis by altering PEP Carboxylase

Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment

Lead Researcher: Doctor Robert Sharwood

About the project

The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) is offering a research scholarship to a highly motivated PhD candidate to work within a research group addressing how to improve the primary carboxylase of C4 photosynthesis. The project is funded by Western Sydney University’s Graduate Research School and linked with the ARC Discovery Grant – Boosting C4 Photosynthesis to climate proof crop yields.

Building next generation C4 crops, such as maize, sugarcane and sorghum, to cope with drought and heat stress is requisite to ensure the supply of food and fodder. Here the proposed project will aim to increase the catalytic efficiency of the primary carboxylase of C4 photosynthesis (PEPC) that supplies CO2 to the carbon concentrating mechanism and ensures high photosynthetic rates. We will develop new SynBio tools to create and test novel PEPC isoforms with desirable properties. Ultimately, the project aims to identify isoforms that improve plant fitness under stress conditions. Optimising PEPC activity will provide next generation solutions to improve water balance and carbon assimilation to keep C4 crops productive under future climates.

The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) is a research institute within Western Sydney University. HIE has rapidly become a research leader in crop biotechnology, with a strong reputation for delivering research outcomes of the highest quality. The project will be based at HIE with the opportunity to work with the supervisors on interrelationships between plant ecophysiology and plant biochemistry.

What does the scholarship provide?

  • Domestic candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192(AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs, supported by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset.
  • International candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192(AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs. Those with a strong track record may be eligible for a tuition fee waiver.
  • International candidates are required to hold an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance policy for the duration of their study in Australia. This cost is not covered by the scholarship.
  • Support for conference attendance, fieldwork and additional costs as approved by the Institute.

Eligibility criteria

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds, who are keen to apply their skills to key issues in plant molecular biology and biochemistry. In particular, the project is suitable for candidates with strong interests in plant biology, plant physiology, climate change and enzyme biochemistry.

The successful applicant should:

  • hold qualifications and experience equal to one of the following (i) an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, (ii) coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, (iii) Research Master’s degree, or (iv) equivalent overseas qualifications.
  • demonstrate strong academic performance in subjects relevant to biochemistry, molecular biology, plant biology and/or agriculture.
  • have an understanding of the importance of C4 photosynthesis and associated physiology.
  • be willing to learn analytical techniques applicable to plant physiology and molecular biology.
  • be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level.
  • International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency.

How to apply

Follow the step-by-step instructions on the how to apply for a project scholarship(opens in a new window) page.

  • Note: You do not need to complete 'Step 5: Submit an online application for admission' when applying for this scholarship. You must complete 'Step 6: Submit an online application for a project scholarship'.

Incomplete applications or applications that do not conform to the above requirements will not be considered.

For questions and advice about the research project, please contact the Lead Researcher; Doctor Robert Sharwood: r.sharwood@westernsydney.edu.au

Applications close 30 April 2024

*Applications close at 11.59pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT).

Scholarship reference code: PS2023_086_HIE_PEPC