Nottingham, United Kingdom
April 27, 2015
PGRO (Processors and Growers Research Organisation) are funding a PhD project at the University of Nottingham to investigate Aphanomyces euteiches, a plant pathogen responsible for yield loss in peas, as part of PGRO’s continuing commitment to promoting research into the pulse crop.
“The project will be based at the University of Nottingham’s School of Biosciences with the objective of providing better understanding of how the frequency of pea cropping influences the levels of the pathogen in the soil,” explains Roger Vickers, PGRO Chief Executive.
“In recent years Aphanomyces euteiches has been increasingly isolated from unhealthy - and also apparently healthy - pea roots in the UK. It is a soil dwelling oomycete plant pathogen with a wide host range, and peas are very susceptible. It is responsible for the disease Aphanomyces root rot with symptoms that generally include reduced root volume and function, leading to stunting and chlorotic foliage.
“It is believed that infection can go unnoticed in the crop with the potential to cause yield decline. The pathogen builds up in the crop until obvious symptoms are seen and dramatic crop loss occurs. Indeed, in certain areas it threatens the very viability of the crop - especially in vining peas.
“A positive outcome to the project could ultimately lead to practical adoption of techniques and cropping technologies that could secure the rotation and crop viability. Also one hoped-for benefit of the project is the development of a rapid test for a quantified assessment of the levels of soil borne inoculum. This will significantly influence the management of and potential yield loss risk to a pea crop on any defined field.
“The PhD student will have the opportunity to work within a crop sector which is very dynamic and with growers who are keen to implement the results of the study. They will also be one of a very small number of researchers working on this problem with the excitement and challenges that this brings,” Mr Vickers.
Notes:
1. The successful student will be mainly based at PGRO and will also spend periods of time at the University of Nottingham’s Sutton Bonington Campus. This three year studentship, starting in September 2015, is jointly funded by the PGRO and the University of Nottingham. The studentship covers the UK/EU tuition fee (£3,996 p.a.) and a tax-free stipend based on BBSRC rates (currently £13,863 p.a.).
2. Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a BSc (Hons) degree in plant science, agriculture, or related subject, at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) and meet the University’s minimum English language entry requirements.
3. Candidates must have an aptitude for research, excellent communication skills, and a passion for translating research results into practical messages for growers.
4. Applicants should send a CV, including the names of two referees, and covering letter to Debbie.Sparkes@nottingham.ac.uk by Friday 22nd May 2015.
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