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Current projects

Current agriculture projects at The University of Otago

Support for Student Travel

We are supporting a PhD student’s travel to present at key microbiology conferences. This student’s research focuses on developing bacteriophage-derived antimicrobials against Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa), a kiwifruit pathogen. They secured partial funding and Ag@Otago contributed the balance to attend the Microbiology Society annual conference in the UK and the Viruses of Microbes 2024 meeting in Cairns.

Genotyping Heritage Apple Varieties

The Jim Dunkley Heritage apple orchard on Mount Cargill houses over 200 apple varieties, sourced from diverse origins and managed by the Coastal Otago Branch of the NZ Tree Croppers Association. This genetic repository supports apple breeding in New Zealand, university research, and teaching. However, many apple identities are uncertain due to grafting and missing records. We are providing funds to genotype these apples using SNP fingerprinting. Collaborating with Plant and Food Research and INRA France ensures accurate identification, benefitting breeders, researchers, and educational initiatives.

Genomic Funding Catalyst for Aquaculture Sector Expansion

We are supporting a project to sequence the genomes of key aquacultural species in Aotearoa, like pāua and geoduck clam, to facilitate collaboration and secure funding. Aquaculture is a targeted growth area with a goal to reach $1 billion by 2025. Genomic data will aid in understanding genome structure, gene content, and heterozygosity, supporting population studies. This initiative will generate essential data for grant applications and advance research in this burgeoning sector, contributing to New Zealand’s economic growth.

Analyzing Soil Microbiome Links to C/N/P Cycling and Impact on Carbon Sequestration & Greenhouse Gas Emissions

We are supporting a project to understand soil microbiome roles in C/N/P cycling affecting carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Experiments in collaboration with Norwegian University of Life Sciences will use isotope tracing and metagenome analysis on soils from New Zealand and partner countries. By assessing microbial C use efficiency (CUE) through 13C and 18O methods, we’ll bridge gaps in understanding soil C dynamics and GHG emissions, aiding climate mitigation strategies.