Crops for a changing climate

I am interested in how plants sense environmental change. I identify proteins that affect yield and crop quality in agriculturally important crops, such as barley. As an applied plant biologist I hope to improve livelihoods of farmers affected by climate change and increase food security.

My research has a direct impact in the plant-breeding industry and may lead to crops with increased drought tolerance or that demand less water during cultivation. Changes to cell proteins used by plants to sense and respond to their environment – such as water and oxygen levels - have already shown increased tolerance to abiotic stresses like waterlogging and drought.

Why Nottingham?

I truly enjoy working in this multidisciplinary place where different subjects combine to produce high-quality research. For example, in my crop science studies, which are mostly based in molecular biology approaches, I can collaborate with plant physiologists, ecologists, soil scientists, and bioinformaticians. Also, as a Nottingham Research fellow I benefitted from great facilities and really helpful technical support. As an early career researcher, I also benefit from the university’s mentoring system which truly supports my career development.

The School of Biosciences is currently involved in several doctoral training partnerships and, for me, being a PhD supervisor is one of the most rewarding parts of being an academic.

Feeling inspired?