Foliar pathogens of pine: are there common triggers for resistance?

Oomycete and fungal pathogens are two very different types of organism that cause serious foliar diseases in pines. They communicate with their hosts to either suppress or trigger host defence responses. The latter is known to occur upon recognition of molecular invasion patterns by the host, and there is evidence for some common molecular invasion patterns in the apoplastic spaces of plants during infection. Using the foliar pine pathogens Phytophthora pluvialis, Cyclaneusma minus and Dothistroma septosporum, and a pine assay developed at Massey University, we aim to find common molecular invasion patterns that could be exploited to achieve broad spectrum resistance. In particular we expect to determine if pathogen invasion patterns that are common to two or more of the species can act as PAMPs (pathogen-associated molecular patterns) or induce DAMPs (damage-associated molecular patterns) and be recognised by ‘broad spectrum’ pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in the host.

The specific objectives include (1) identification of common invasion patterns/PAMPs/DAMPs by comparative genomics and transcriptomics analysis (2) screening of these candidates for potential virulence or avirulence functions using both a non-host plant system and the pine host and (3) identification of potential plant immune receptors using gene silencing and co-immunoprecipitation assays. This work could ultimately lead to development of molecular markers for rapid screening in breeding programmes, and will provide detailed insight into the molecular basis of broad spectrum resistance in pine.

This project is funded by Scion and will be based at Massey University (Palmerston North) in close collaboration with Scion scientists.

The studentship provides an annual stipend of NZ$29,000 plus fees for 3.5 years.

For more information please see http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/learning/colleges/college-of-sciences/research/agriculture-environment-research/agriculture/molecular-plant-pathology-lab/molecular-plant-pathology-lab_home.cfm or contact Professor Rosie Bradshaw ([Email Address Removed]).

Applicants should have a strong interest in molecular plant-pathogen interactions and forest pathology, and a first or upper second class BSc(Honours) or MSc degree in Molecular Plant Pathology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology or a related discipline. Experience in plant pathology, oomycete and/or fungal biology, bioinformatics and microscopy would be an advantage.

To apply please send a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, motivation letter and contact details (email addresses) of at least two academic referees to Rosie Bradshaw ([Email Address Removed]) before the closing date of 7 September 2018.

Applicants must meet Massey University admission requirements (http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/admission/entry-requirements/eligible_home.cfm) for postgraduate studies.
Minimum English language requirements for International applicants are detailed at http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/international/study-on-campus/entry-requirements/entry-requirements_home.cfm
For general enquiries about international admissions please contact the International Office ([Email Address Removed]).