
Trustworthy and insightful algorithms for industrial decision making
This research project will use state-of-the-art optimisation technologies in the form of mathematical models and algorithms to find optimal solutions for industry
Shutterstock
This joint PhD project is based at The University of Melbourne with a 12-month stay at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
Key questions:
This joint PhD project is based at The University of Melbourne with a minimum 12-month stay at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
Project description
Plant-microbe interactions are intricate processes that involve underground signalling and communication, followed by modifications in the plant’s biological, morphological and biochemical components. Some proteins, lipids, small RNA’s, and metabolites which are exchanged between plants and microbes are considered signalling molecules for the ‘dialogue’ of plant-microbes.
Multiple microbes associated with host plants are known to positively influence plant growth through the production of growth-regulating hormones, enhancing plant nutrition, improving the root system architecture of host plants, and protecting plants from biotic or abiotic stresses.
Harnessing the new knowledge of the biochemical and genetic basis of plant-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere is a promising direction to innovate the design of new controlled-release fertilizer coatings for improved crop nitrogen (N) acquisition in agricultural ecosystems.
This project will define the biochemical signalling molecules released and sensed by selected crops (e.g. cotton, wheat or barley) for N acquisition and their roles in regulating soil N transformations. These signalling molecules (in particular, those relevant to N acquisition) can be used to inform the design of new fertilisers and inhibitors.
Professor Ute Roessner (The University of Melbourne) (primary contact for UoM-based student), Prof Deli Chen
Professor Dabing Zhang (Shanghai Jiao Tong University) (primary contact with SJTU-based student)
This research project will use state-of-the-art optimisation technologies in the form of mathematical models and algorithms to find optimal solutions for industry
This research project aims to characterise p97, an ATPase with essential roles in many cellular processes.