Rhizosphere ionomics versus root architecture: regulating elemental uptake with alternate wetting and drying of rice
Supervisors:
Paul N. Williams, School of Biological Sciences, Queens University, Belfast
Ian Dodd, Lancaster Environment Centre, University of Lancaster
Industry Partner - DGT Research
Summary:
Rice is vital for global food and nutritional security. Traditionally grown under continuous flooding (CF), it is one of the largest sources of agricultural greenhouse-gas-emissions. Its high dependency on water makes this cropping system unsustainable in parts of the world. Intermittent irrigation, termed alternate wetting-and-drying (AWD), decreases emissions and allows water savings of 20-40%. AWD can maintain or even increase rice yield, but whether it affects grain micronutrient/toxic-metal content is uncertain.
By conducting experiments at the rhizosphere, pot and field scales, you will develop skills in experimental design, project management, report writing, data curation and handling, statistical analysis and communication. Specialist analytical training in geochemistry will include Diffusive-Gradients-in-thin-films (DGT) chemical-imaging and the use/handling of 193nm excimer laser ablation-ICP-QQQ-MS. You will acquire plant physiological skills including root architecture analysis, and measuring plant hormone (immunological techniques, photoacoustic laser spectroscopy) and water (thermocouple psychrometry) relations.
Within the wider context of food security and agricultural sustainability, this interdisciplinary project develops skills in biogeochemistry and plant physiology, to develop, test and optimize water saving recommendations for modern rice agriculture in threatened regions of the world. By maintaining grain nutrient value and yield, but limiting accumulation of toxic elements, this project provides the underpinning science facilitate AWD implementation with international partners.