PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Join a groundbreaking research project investigating the spread, genetic diversity, and resistance mechanisms of the wheat root disease, take-all. This fully funded PhD opportunity offers the chance to delve into population genomics, GWAS analysis, and expression analysis to tackle crucial questions in agricultural disease management.
PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Understanding Wheat Take-All Infection Spread, Chemical Resistance, and Biocontrol
Summary Table:
| Supervisor | Prof Neil Hall / Dr Mark McMullan |
|---|---|
| Co-supervisor | Prof Anne Osbourn (JIC) |
| Reference | HALL_E24JIF |
| Start Date | 01 October 2024 |
| Application Deadline | 30 May 2024 |
| Funding | 4-year PhD funded by the John Innes Foundation |
Study Area:
Take-all is the most significant root disease affecting wheat globally, caused by the fungus Gaeumannomyces tritici. This project focuses on understanding the spread, genetic diversity, and resistance mechanisms of this pathogen, crucial for developing effective crop protection strategies.
Scholarship Description:
This PhD project offers a unique opportunity to delve into the genetic diversity and spread of G. tritici, employing cutting-edge techniques such as GWAS and population genomics. The research aims to elucidate fundamental questions surrounding the pathogen’s diversity, spread across landscapes and continents, and evolution of fungicide resistance. Utilizing resources like the UK pangenome for G. tritici, the project will shed light on virulence mechanisms and explore biocontrol agents.
Eligibility:
Applicants should hold at least a UK equivalence Bachelors (Honours) 2:1 or a UK equivalence Master’s degree. Proficiency in English (IELTS 6.5 overall, 6 in each category) is required. Both UK and international candidates with relevant undergraduate degrees are eligible for this fully funded 4-year PhD opportunity.
Required Documents:
Candidates need to submit relevant academic transcripts, a CV, a research proposal, and two academic references.
How to Apply:
To apply, visit our website at http://www.earlham.ac.uk/application-guidance and follow the application instructions provided.
Last Date:
Application deadline: 30 May 2024.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in plant pathology and crop protection. Apply now and embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of wheat take-all disease.
