Christine is currently accepting expressions of interest for PhD positions focused on enhancing the use of prior knowledge (mechanistic, genetic and physiological networks) in genomic prediction.
Sequencing plant genomes has become easier and cheaper but it’s still hard to predict how changes to the genotype of a plant will play out across the entire phenotype, not just in the short term but over seasons, years, and over evolutionary history.
The Centre will develop mathematical tools to model the myriad connections between a plant’s genetic networks and its observable traits. Building on this genotype–phenotype model, the Centre will create software tools that enable breeders to predict with greater certainty the probability of breeding success, without their needing to understand how the plant works.
This PhD project will contribute to the above Centre goals and will focus on sorghum or Arabidopsis according to your preference. If you have or will soon have Hons or Masters in Arabidopsis genetics or omics of crop population studies, plant physiology, development or hormones this PhD opportunity may suit you.
Contact Christine via email ASAP to discuss.