Ultrarapid real-time diagnostic tool of plant disease infection adapted for field deployment

We will develop a rapid non-destructive technology for the detection of plant pathogens and insect damage. Uniquely this approach will simultaneously use a combination of machine vision and volatile biomarkers to diagnose the presence of plant pests, i.e. pathogens and insects, even before extensive damage and loss of plant yield occurs. This will enable faster detection of crop pests allowing farmers and growers to apply crop protection strategies at the correct time which will result in reduced yield loss and less pesticide spraying.

This project uniquely brings together ultra-rapid imaging, chemical mapping and volatilome profiling to detect and diagnose plant pest insects and pathogens in real time, at a previously unavailable level of detail. Furthermore, we will develop proof-of-concept non-destructive diagnostic tools adapted for field deployment for the efficient real time, in-field detection of plant pathogens and insect damage that limit crop yields in the UK.