Translating RNAi technology for virus and whitefly management in protected cropping systems

We are looking for domestic (Australia and/or New Zealand) PhD applicants driven to undertake translational research in horticultural production, plant virology and pest management.

This project aims to investigate the effectiveness of RNA-based biopesticides as a potential control strategy for viruses and insects of importance to protected cropping production systems.

Working closely with Industry partners and Horticulture innovation Australia, this project will accelerate the translation of RNAi-based biopesticide applications as novel viricides  and bio-pesticides to Australian protected cropping producers.

Specific objectives of the project are:

1. Define the utility, performance, and specificity of RNAi biopesticides against several insect and virus challenges broadly encountered across the protected cropping Industry.
2. Defining the physical, mechanistic, and functional parameters of RNAi biopesticide applications to target insect pests and viruses in commercial protected cropping systems.
3. To explore scaled dsRNA synthesis using in vitro and/or bacterial expression systems and high-density bioreactors.
4. Ultimately demonstrate the use of novel RNAi applications in commercial protected cropping systems as part of an integrated pest and disease management approach to managing specific insect pests and viruses.

The candidate will be a critical part of a rapidly growing team of researchers with incumbent Post-doctoral researchers, Research Assistants, PhD Students, and post and undergraduate students.

The candidate will have access to modern molecular biology laboratories, small bioreactor facility, and the UQ Plant Futures Facility at the St Lucia Campus as well as newly developed high-tech greenhouse facilities located at the Gatton Campus.

The postdoctoral research officer will work under the direct supervision of Dr Karl Robinson and work closely with leading UQ Academics as part of a larger multidisciplined group within the Mitter Laboratory and Centre for Horticultural Sciences to develop smart solutions and accelerate the development of RNA-based biopesticides for indoor and vertical farming enterprises.