Plant Science and Photosynthesis

Without photosynthetic organisms, there could only be very limited life on our planet. Their astonishing ability to create organic matter out of light and air is a fascinating subject for basic research and can also help us address the multiple challenges facing humanity.

Under the Plant Science and Photosynthesis theme the Centre for Biodiversity and Sustainability hosts an internationally acknowledged excellence cluster. Consistent investment in related facilities and equipment, and the high quality of work on this theme have attracted world leading researchers for the past 30 years. Our work spans an enormous evolutionary scale, from trees and crop plants to algae and photosynthetic bacteria. This reflects common interests in evolution, both in terms of the origins of photosynthetic light harvesting machinery, and in the evolution and development of crop plants. Other research themes include the mechanisms used to adjust to environmental conditions: for example, how to maximize light harvesting in dim light but prevent damage during the sudden bursts of illumination to which most organisms are subject. Photosynthesis is also the basis for theoretical research at Queen Mary, aiming to predict signals of extra-terrestrial photosynthetic activity and detect life on other planets. 

In addition to answering fundamental research questions, much of our work is outward facing, including active interactions with DEFRA regarding responses to tree disease, with Biotech firms seeking to generate high value compounds, and with Agribusiness aiming to improve crop yields.

Experimental organisms studied in the Plants and Photosynthesis theme. Left, confocal images of cyanobacteria showing chlorophyll fluorescence (red) and labelling of RNA to reveal translation sites of photosystems (green). Middle, Ash seedlings being screened as part of a study to identify genes important for resistance to Ash die back fungus. Right, developing barley seeds from CRISPR-knock down lines used to investigate the role of photosynthesis in grain yield.