Mr Philip Davies

Summary

I have a keen interest in soil and stubble borne diseases of summer and winter cereals. I also have a passion for understanding the biology of soil and stubble borne pathogens and the epidemiology of the diseases they cause.

The aims of my research are to develop sustainable and profitable solutions to soil and stubble borne diseases of cereals through agronomic and genetic advancements.

Research interests

Soil and stubble borne pathogens present a significant challenge to cereal growers worldwide. The focus of my research has thus been to reduce the impact of these pathogens, concentrating on diseases caused by members of the Fusarium genus.

Previous projects have included investigating the influence of agronomic practices on the aetiology and epidemiology of Fusarium head blight in northern New South Wales, as well as establishing the epidemiological relationship between crown rot and Fusarium head blight pathogens.

Current research projects include developing wheat germplasm with improved resistance and tolerance to crown rot of wheat using a Marker Assisted Recurrent Selection strategy, and investigating the role of zinc in enhancing tolerance to crown rot.

Background

I completed a BScAgr at Sydney University in 2006 and went on to complete a PhD titled “Fusarium head blight: Epidemiology and Host Resistance”. I have recently accepted a GRDC funded Post Doctoral Fellowship at the Plant Breeding Institute Narrabri.

Contact

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