Using mathematical modelling to curtail the threat of wheat stem rust in the UK (SAUNDERSJ21DTP)

The “polio of agriculture” wheat stem rust is experiencing a resurgence after many decades of absence in western Europe. With over 80 % of current UK wheat varieties susceptible (Lewis et al., 2018), this illustrates the significant threat to wheat production that stem rust would pose if it became re-established in the UK.

The causal pathogen (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici; Pgt) is complex, undergoing asexual reproduction on cereal crops and completing sexual reproduction through infection of an unrelated shrub, Berberis. To date, wheat rust research has predominantly focused on the asexual cycle. This is despite the crucial role spore dispersal and subsequent infection of Berberis plays in leading to the creation of the only source of in-country stem rust inoculum at the beginning of the wheat season in temperate zones.

The aim of this project is to evaluate the role of the Pgt sexual cycle in temperate zones such as the UK in facilitating stem rust infection, using predominantly a computational approach. The student will undertake a comparative transcriptomic study to assess disease progression and generate basic biological data to support the development of a detailed spore dispersal model that can be used in real-time to classify high risk Berberis bushes under prevailing environmental conditions. Mathematical modelling will be used for predicting disease spread and this approach will ultimately enable the identification of high risk Berberis bushes that require careful monitoring and inform policy in this area. This project provides a unique opportunity to join two leading multidisciplinary research teams (Saunders & Morris Labs) at the John Innes Centre, a center of excellence in plant and microbial science.

The Norwich Research Park Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) is open to UK and international candidates for entry October 2021 and offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4-year PhD research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. All NRPDTP students undertake a three-month professional internship placement (PIPS) during their study. The placement offers exciting and invaluable work experience designed to enhance professional development. Full support and advice will be provided by our Professional Internship team. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.

This project has been shortlisted for funding by the NRPDTP programme. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed on Thursday 7th January, Friday 8th January and Monday 11th January 2021.

Visit our website for further information on eligibility and how to apply: https://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/

Our partners value diverse and inclusive work environments that are positive and supportive. Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or social background.