EPSRC Supported EngD: Development of diverse cells encapsulation for dual pests’ control in agriculture Prof Z Zhang ( Chemical Engineering, Univ of Birmingham ) Bionema Tax-free bursary of £ 24,400 p.a. plus fees paid
Government targets and public demand for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices represent a global response to a broken food system that is damaging our planet, our biodiversity, and ourselves. To provide food security for expanding populations, solutions that manage crop pests and diseases without the use of toxic synthetic chemicals, are essential. One such solution comes in the form of biologicals (also known as biopesticides, biostimulants and biofertilizers).
Bioprotectants comprise living organisms, working on the fundamental principles of ‘natural enemies’ found in nature. However, the use of living organisms in crop protection brings unique challenges. For bioprotectants to work efficiently and consistently in the field, advanced formulation and delivery systems must be developed and commercialised. BU and Bionema's earlier work on novel microencapsulation formulation/delivery technology for single entomopathogenic fungal organisms is already a game changer that increases the efficacy of fungus-based bioprotectants in fighting crop pests by delivering the active fungal spores in a microcapsule for controlled release.
In this EngD proposal next innovation will be to encapsulate bacteria and fungus in a single capsule for pests, disease and plant health management. This follow-on gamechanger then extends the concept of single fungal spore encapsulation to the encapsulation of two or more organisms in a single capsule, as a platform technology for multiple disease and pest control in agriculture. The novel multiple-cell encapsulation will use an oil/spore suspension in a hydrogel, inside a shell made of natural materials (e.g., sodium alginate mixed with pectin, crosslinked using calcium chloride). Major improvements in this formulation include controlled release kinetics, as well as enhanced shelf-life, speed to kill, stability, dispersion, and adhesion to crops to improve efficacy. It will allow bioprotectants to fill the gaps left by banned chemical pesticides, enabling 21st-century Agritech to advance in a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach.
To be eligible for EPSRC funding candidates must have at least a 2(1) in an Engineering or Scientific discipline or a 2(2) plus MSc. To apply please email your cv to [Email Address Removed]. Currently, we are only able to accept UK nationals. For details on the Engineering Doctorate scheme visit the homepage. Deadline: 2 June 2023
Funding notes:
To be eligible for EPSRC funding candidates must have at least a 2(1) in an Engineering or Scientific discipline or a 2(2) plus MSc. To apply please email your cv to [Email Address Removed]. Currently, we are only able to accept UK nationals. For details on the Engineering Doctorate scheme, please visit the homepage: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/combined/chemical-engineering/formulation-engineering-engd.aspx?OpenSection=HowToApply
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