Influence of microbial community on nitrogen use efficiency in agriculture

Lead Research Organisation: University of York
Department Name: Biology

Abstract

This project aims to develop tools for better monitoring of nutrient cycling in soils, with a view to improving sustainability and productivity in agriculture. Working between the University of York and partner company Precision Decisions (who provide precision farming services), the student on this project will investigate the diversity of nitrogen cycling processes in soils, in order to understand the relationships between the microbial genes present and the (highly variable) efficiency with which nitrogenous fertilizers are used. The project will involve using microbiology, biochemical analysis, next generation sequencing, and application of computational models for data analysis. We are looking for a science graduate with good analytical skills and a willingness to learn / use a variety of biological and analytical techniques as part of an interdisciplinary team working on this important problem.

The project is a collaboration with an industrial partner and will include a 3 month placement with Precision Decisions in York.

Publications

10 25 50
 
Description The effects of spatial distance and environmental gradients can often mask the long term land management effects on soil microbial communities. The overwhelming variation caused by spatial distance indicates that block designed experiments may not always have sufficient statistical power to identify any effects of human treatment.
Exploitation Route This outcome may lead to the redesigning of field trials, in order to better understand the effects of land management treatments such as fertilizer application. This may lead to more targeted use of fertilizers, which would reduce environmental impacts whilst maintaining high crop yield.
Sectors Agriculture, Food and Drink,Environment
 
Description Soapbox Science York 2019 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Over 100 members of the general public attended this event in the centre of York, which promoted the visibility of women in STEM and engaged people who may not ordinarily attend scientific events. The interactive nature of the presentations and the surrounding discussion allowed the public to learn about cutting edge research and potentially develop their interest in science.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL http://soapboxscience.org/soapbox-science-2019-york/