PhD in Plants and Microbes: crop production and protection, the interaction between plants and other plants, pests and pathogens, and soils, and the interactions of ecosystems with global change

Plants underpin life on Earth. In Sheffield, world leading plant research is undertaken across all scales from the molecular level through to the leaf and root, whole plant and ecosystem. We study crop production and protection, the interaction between plants and other plants, pests and pathogens, and soils, and the interactions of ecosystems with global change. Our work provides industry breeders with ways to improve crops and policymakers with evidence to address major global challenges. Research approaches controlled vary from controlled environment and field experiments, to mathematical modelling, and analysis of large ‘omics datasets. We address challenges in temperate, boreal, Arctic, Savanna, tropical and sub-Saharan regions in both agricultural and natural systems.

The Department of Animal and Plant Sciences is home to world experts in plant development, photosynthesis and growth, and the relationships between plants and the environment, especially the impacts of rising atmospheric CO2 and climate change. We also have a broad range of interests in the interactions of plants with other organisms, including mycorrhizal fungi, weeds, insect pests, and fungal and bacterial pathogens. Our researchers and collaborators are world leading experts in a range of advanced molecular techniques, including molecular genetics, metabolomics, fluorescent imaging, gas exchange analysis and carbon isotope analysis.

Ours is a truly international environment, in the heart of one of the best student cities in the UK. Our research involves collaborations with colleagues in the UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, and South America. Our postgraduate community is vibrant and diverse and we currently have over 100 graduate students carrying out PhD research, including numerous international students. We frequently host overseas staff and researchers attracted by the department’s and Sheffield’s outstanding reputation for high quality research and training.

Science Graduate School

As a PhD student in one of the science departments at the University of Sheffield, you will get access to training opportunities of the Science Graduate School designed to support your career development by helping you gain professional skills that are essential in all areas of science. You will be able to learn how to recognise good research and research behaviour, improve your communication abilities and experience the breadth of technologies that are used in academia, industry and many related careers. Visit http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/sgs to learn more.

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/postgraduate/phd