Identification and characterisation of plant pathogen-inhibiting rhizobacteria

Potential biocontrol bacteria associated with the rhizosphere of plants will be tested for their ability to inhibit the growth of plant pathogens. Bacteria producing antimicrobial compounds will then be identified by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and can potentially be used for pathogen biocontrol. Antimicrobial peptides may be further characterised by in gel pathogen inhibition assays followed by N-terminal sequencing. Suitable for Science and Biotech students.

Expected outcomes: Identificatino of biocontrol bacteria and their possible uses.

Supervisor: Professor Peer Schenk