Advancing grain partitioning in winter wheat through genomics enabled breeding

Grain yields of wheat must be doubled in the next 30 years to achieve food security. Yield is limited by grain number, and identifying traits to enhance grain number and maximize assimilate allocation to grain, while understanding the genetic regulation of traits will be critical for raising yields. This project aims to develop new molecular markers for grain partitioning traits to enhance yield in winter wheat. This is a field and laboratory based project which will develop skills in physiological trait analysis and molecular genetics. Biochemical assays will be employed to test plant signalling pathways associated with grain number. The project is a collaboration between the University of Nottingham and KWS UK Ltd and there will be the opportunity to learn and apply the latest plant breeding and genomics technologies. This project will be primarily based in the School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, with extended periods based at KWS near Cambridge.

Please see individual studentship details for deadlines.

Contact: Dr John Foulkes ([Email Address Removed])