Dr Matthew Back
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
Many species of root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) are known to infest potatoes, leading to substantial yield loss, reduction in quality and increased susceptibility to soil borne fungal pathogens. Yield losses of up to 50% have been reported worldwide (Kipinski (2008); however, in the UK there continues to be a significant knowledge gap on their distribution, pathogenicity and impact on potato production. Additionally, the diagnosis of these nematodes is restricted to a few experienced taxonomists who rely upon time-consuming, classical taxonomic methods. Diagnosis of infestations in a growing crop can be difficult due to the symptoms mainly being restricted to the root system and as a consequence are often overlooked. It is also possible to confuse the symptoms with damage caused by other more easily recognised pests and pathogens e.g. Rhizoctonia.
This study seeks to understand the prevalence of these nematode pests in relation to field site characteristics. In order to keep an industry focus, we will work with two UK agronomists – Mr M. Cox of Blackthorn Arable and Mr J. Purslow of JP Agronomy who have previously observed damage from root lesion nematodes on potatoes in the UK. The incidence of root-lesion nematode populations and pathogenicity of species will be studied to determine potato damage thresholds under controlled conditions. Parameters such as variety and soil type will be investigated to improve the accuracy of damage thresholds. A suitable robust molecular assay (such as qPCR) will be developed to provide rapid diagnosis and potential molecular quantification tools for the industry. The aim of the project is to determine the impact of Pratylenchus species on UK potato production. Specific objectives are as follows: -
1. Train the student in the morphological identification of Pratylenchus spp. and develop molecular assays for the rapid confirmation of root lesion nematode species
2. Using the molecular assays developed in objective 1, undertake a survey to determine the distribution and prevalence of Pratylenchus spp in potato growing land
3. Under controlled conditions determine potato damage thresholds for Pratylenchus species in a variety of soil types with a range of cultivars.
4. Working closely with UK agronomists, conduct field based studies to assess the performance of damage thresholds (from objective 3) in relation to potato growth, yield and tuber quality
5. Determine whether a disease complex exists between Pratylenchus species and Rhizoctonia solani diseases of potatoes
Funding Notes
The studentship includes tuition and bench fees and a stipend of £13,500 rising by annual increments of £500.
Applicants will normally be expected to hold a Bachelor’s degree with a first or upper second class or a high GPA in an appropriate subject. Experience in plant nematology and a relevant Master’s degree may be an advantage.
A minimum level of competency in English is required. International applicants need to be classed as an overall grade 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component using the International English Language Test System (IELTS).
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