PhD Scholarship in Wheat Varieties: This PhD scholarship focuses on identifying key traits underpinning yield stability and their response to environmental factors, particularly root plasticity to water deficit in contrasting wheat genotypes. The successful candidate will work within a broader GRDC Project in collaboration with leading breeding companies and utilize cutting-edge phenotyping technology to evaluate root traits. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated student to develop skills in crop adaptation, phenotyping, agronomy, modelling, and analytical techniques.
PhD Scholarship in Root Plasticity for Drought-Tolerant Wheat Varieties
Designation: PhD Candidate
Research Area: Agricultural, Veterinary, and Food Sciences
Location: UQ Gatton Campus, Queensland, Australia
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Degree in the area of plant/crop science
- Demonstrated expert knowledge in plant/crop physiology
- Ability to develop, conduct, and analyze large experiments
- Knowledge and experience in statistical analyses
- High level of effective communication in English and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in cross-disciplinary geographically-distant teams within an academic and professional environment
- Desirable criteria include knowledge and experience in wheat or other cereals, plant/crop modelling, ecophysiology, agronomy, computer programming, statistical analyses, as well as evidence of contribution to research and publication in the plant science area in high-ranking refereed journals.
Job Description: The PhD candidate will evaluate root plasticity to water deficit in contrasting wheat genotypes using cutting-edge phenotyping technology. Additionally, they will assess the breeding value of key root traits in production environments across Australia, working in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team of experts in crop physiology, eco-physiology, agronomy, crop modeling, genetics, and breeding.
How to Apply:
To be considered for this scholarship, interested candidates should email the following documents to Associate Professor Karine Chenu (karine.chenu@uq.edu.au) or Dr. Vijaya Singh (v.singh@uq.edu.au):
- Cover letter
- CV (including GPAs for main diploma)
- Academic transcript/s
- A separate document addressing the essential and desirable selection criteria
- Evidence for meeting UQ’s English language proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
Last Date for Apply: Until position filled
The closing date for applications will be provided upon reaching out to the principal supervisor to discuss your interest. It is important to approach the potential supervisor in a professional manner.
