Measuring drought effects in potato using 3D multispectral imaging

This project will look at the impacts of pot size and water restriction on drought responses in potato cultivars. A 3D camera will be used to scan plants as they grow and determine how the plant canopy physiology changes as a result.

Department: Crop Science

Supervised by: Dr Luke Bell

The Placement Project

Drought is a major problem facing potato crops across the world. Potatoes require large quantities of water in order to sustain tuber formation and attain high yields. Drought at critical times of development can significantly reduce yields. This research will look at the effects that drough has on potato crop physiology; specifically how the plant canopy changes in response to water restriction. This can manifest in changes to plant height, leaf area, leaf colour, and leaf angle. In order to quantify these chanages a 3D multispectral camera will be used to capture images of plants as they grow and are subjected to drought in different pot sizes.

Tasks

The UROP student will work alongside an experienced PhD student to conduct an experiment on drought response in potato. The student will assist with cultivation of potato plants in a glasshouse and utilise cutting edge 3D imaging technology to scan plants as they grow and are subjected to drought treatments. The student will gain hands on experience with the camera and learn how data are extracted and interpreted.

Skills, knowledge and experience required

Previous experience growing and caring for plants is desirable but not essential. Good communication skills and punctuality are essential. Students should be willing to work under warm glasshouse conditions and handle soil and compost materials.

Skills which will be developed during the placement

This placement will develop key research skills such as experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis. You will gain experience working as part of a large interdisciplinary research group and learn to work as part of a team.

Place of Work

Crop & Environment Laboratory (CEL), School of Agriculture

Hours of Work

10 am - 4 pm, Mon - Fri

Approximate Start and End Dates (not fixed)

Monday 05 June 2023 - Friday 14 July 2023

How to Apply

The deadline to apply for this opportunity is Friday 21st April 2023. Students should submit their CV and Cover Letter directly to the Project Supervisor (click on supervisor name at the top of the page for email). Successful candidates will be invited for an interview.