Investigating emerging disease threats to oilseed rape from fungal pathogens

Fully funded four-year PhD studentship now available, based at the University of Hertfordshire in collaboration with Rothamsted Research.

This is an oilseeds pathology project that investigates emerging disease threats to UK oilseed rape crops from fungal pathogens. It focuses on the globally important Phoma leaf spot/stem canker fungi, aiming to better understand pathogen population biology for improved disease management.

We seek a student to start in the near future (early 2026). The candidate must have an enthusiasm for agriculture, a 2.1 degree (master's preferred) in a biological or related scientific subject, plus a driving license.

Funding for the project is secured but subject to interview with supervisors/funders.
Student must be a U.K. national (funder requirement).

For further information on the project/ application process, please contact:
•University of Hertfordshire supervisor Prof Yongju Huang (y.huang8@herts.ac.uk)
•Rothamsted supervisors Dr Kevin King (kevin.king@rothamsted.ac.uk) or Prof Jon West (jon.west@rothamsted.ac.uk)