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Genetics of resistance to rust diseases in cultivated barley

Summary

Rust diseases, particularly leaf rust, impact on barley production not only in Australia but also overseas. The most economical and sustainable way to control these diseases is via the deployment of genetic resistance. This project will undertake genetic analyses of resistance to leaf rust and also stripe rust in barley, to assist Australian barley breeders in their efforts to develop new rust resistant cultivars. The project will equip a student with the skills for a career in plant pathology, plant genetics, and/or plant breeding. It will provide training in these fields, and utilize standard genetic and molecular genetic (DNA) approaches.

Supervisor

Professor Robert Park.

Research location

Sydney Institute of Agriculture - Australian Technology Park

Program type

PHD

Synopsis

Among the areas to be undertaken, the project will involve studies of:
1. new sources of rust resistance in diverse international barley germplasm
2. genetic analyses of adult plant resistance to leaf rust in selected barley genotypes
3. resistance to stripe rust in barley, including genetic mapping
4. mutation in the barley leaf rust pathogen

Additional information

The student would undertake studies at the Cereal Rust Laboratory at PBI, and would be encouraged to interact with other scientific staff and students working in this laboratory.

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 1232

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