Harper Adams University
2 weeks ago
PhD in Exploiting Pathogen Interactions to Boost Potato Defence and Develop Sustainable Pest Management Solutions Harper Adams University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Molecular Biology
Funding
Full funding availableCountry
United Kingdom
University
Harper Adams University

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About this position
PhD opportunity at Harper Adams University and the James Hutton Institute in potato defence, pathogen interactions, and sustainable pest management.
This fully funded PhD is part of the CIC-START industrial doctoral training programme and focuses on how interactions between potato cyst nematodes (Globodera spp.), Pectobacterium spp., and other potato pathogens may influence host defence, root exudates, and disease complexes. The project aims to identify molecular interactions, characterise changes in root diffusates, and test whether elicitors from one pathogen can trigger defence responses that reduce infection by other pathogens such as PCN, blackleg, and late blight.
Research methods include 3D-printed chemotaxis chambers, tandem mass spectrometry, assays of plant defence elicitors, and greenhouse validation. The student will gain practical experience in molecular biology, microscopy, plant pathology, nematology, and data analysis, with access to specialist facilities at both institutions.
Funding: fully funded by BBSRC/UKRI, including a stipend at the UKRI rate (£21,805), tuition fees, and a small research budget.
Eligibility: applications are welcome from both UK and overseas applicants, though international recruitment is capped under UKRI rules and only one international place is available.
Location: the project will be based at the James Hutton Institute with some time at Harper Adams University, Centre for Crop and Environmental Science.
Apply now via the advertised FindAPhD project page.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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