Fungicides are now used routinely on the majority of sugar beet crops in the UK. The resulting yield benefits of up to 30% are partially attributed to disease control and partly to physiological effects, although the mechanisms underpinning the latter are not well understood.
This work aims to gain a greater understanding of the physiological effects of fungicides on sugar beet growth and yield. A combination of laboratory, controlled environment and field experiments will be used to explore the response to fungicide application, at a range of timings, in the presence and absence of disease. The knowledge gained from this project will enable growers to optimise the timing of fungicide application for both disease control and the physiological response.
This is an exciting opportunity to kickstart your research career by joining an established research group which works closely with industry partners. You will have the opportunity to network with researchers, growers and the wider sugar beet industry, both in the UK and internationally (https://twitter.com/UoN_Beet_team)
The successful student will be based at the University of Nottingham’s Sutton Bonington Campus.
This four year studentship, starting in October 2020, is funded by the Chadacre Agriculture Trust and the British Beet Research Organisation. The studentship covers the UK/EU tuition fee (currently £4,414 p.a.) and a tax-free stipend based on BBSRC rates (currently £15,285 p.a.)
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a BSc (Hons) degree in agriculture, crop science, or related subject, at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) and meet the University’s minimum English language entry requirements. Candidates must have an aptitude for research, excellent communication skills, and a passion for translating research results into practical messages for growers.
Applicants should send a CV, including the names of two referees, and covering letter to Debbie.Sparkes@nottingham.ac.uk by 15th June 2020.
