OVERVIEW
The Panama disease of bananas caused by Foc TR4 threatens the global production of bananas. In this project, we will explore soil bacteria to develop biocontrol methods to mitigate the Panama disease.
The Panama disease of bananas caused by Foc TR4 threatens the global production of bananas. In this project, we will explore soil bacteria to develop biocontrol methods to mitigate the Panama disease. Foc is resistant to most chemical fungicides and its control is currently limited to low efficient phytosanitary measures. Soil bacteria constantly interact with plants and fungi to thrive. Many bacteria species colonize plant roots to form mutually beneficial relationships. We have been exploring soil bacteria from Central American banana fields.
The project’s objectives include: 1). Testing bacterial activity in repressing Foc TR4 in vitro and in soil with banana plants. 2). Identifying bacterial species, including genome sequencing. 3) Studying the molecular basis of the activity by biochemical studies and RNAseq. 4) Developing delivery methodologies of the bacteria to the fields; and 5) Field trials of the methods in Central American countries through collaboration.
Funding Information
The project is funded by UK governmental fund through the Department for the Economy (DfE). The applicant must be ordinarily resident in the UK or Islands, including the Channel
Islands and Isle of Man, for the full three year period before the first day of the first
academic year of the course, i.e. normally 1 October. Details of eligibility of application can be found in the document of DfE (https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/economy/Postgraduate-Studentships-Terms-Conditions-2023-24.pdf)
COURSE CONTENT
Research Information
PhD Supervisors
Information on the research interests and activities of academics in Biological Sciences can be accessed via the School website and the Find a Supervisor facility (see Apply tab).
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Graduate
The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree in a relevant subject from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Further information can be obtained by contacting the School.
International Students
For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country.
HOW TO APPLY
Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
Find a supervisor
If you’re interested in a particular project, we suggest you contact the relevant academic before you apply, to introduce yourself and ask questions.
To find a potential supervisor aligned with your area of interest, or if you are unsure of who to contact, look through the staff profiles linked here.
You might be asked to provide a short outline of your proposal to help us identify potential supervisors.
