SASRI: MSC Bursaries 2018 (Plant Breeding Sugarcane Research)
South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI) invites
qualifying students to apply for Bursary Programme for
2018 academic year.
Bursary application deadline is 16
February 2018
Bursary Provider: South African Sugarcane
Research Institute (SASRI)
Bursary Location: Mount
Edgecombe, near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
About the Position
To promote innovation in South African sugarcane agriculture,
the South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI) hosts
a dynamic post-graduate programme on the SASRI campus in
Mount Edgecome, KwaZulu-Natal. The research is conducted
under the supervision of SASRI scientists who are affiliated
with several leading South African universities, including
the University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Pretoria, and
University of the Free State and Stellenbosch University.
Background of MSc Plant Breeding Project:
In the first stage field evaluation in sugarcane breeding at
SASRI, the genotypes within family plots are planted using
tram-line plot configuration. Tramline plot configuration is
when two adjacent rows are planted followed by an unplanted
row. The unplanted row is used to provide easy access to the
individual genotypes plots during yield measurements, disease
inspections, eldana damage assessment and final genotype
evaluation for selection and advancement. However, the
unplanted row provides extra space for vigorous genotypes to
exploit and grow larger. The effect on genotypes of the extra
space provided by the unplanted row is not known. Further, if
genotypes react differently when provided with extra space,
the results of yield measurements may also vary and not be
correlated to the results obtained when the genotypes are
planted under normal commercial planting. In normal
commercial planting, there is no tramline and continuous rows
are planted. If the bias is significant, the tramline may
result is selection of a significant proportion of genotypes
that would not possess high yield under normal planting as is
practiced during commercial planting. Understanding the
impact of plot configurations on genetic and breeding
parameters will increase accuracy of data and selection in
the first stage of sugarcane breeding in South Africa.
Objectives of the Project:
The objectives of this study are to determine the genetic and
breeding parameters for yield, quality, pest and disease
traits under tramline and commercial planting plot
configurations, determine phenotypic and genetic correlations
under tramline and commercial plot configurations and
evaluate implication on family evaluation, estimates of
breeding values and field selection. The results from this
study will be used to optimise the first stage of SASRI
sugarcane breeding programmes.
The ideal candidate must have:
- BSc or BSc Hons in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Crop
Science, Horticulture and Agronomy with a minor in
Statistics.
- Strong academic background in the fields of genetics,
plant breeding, quantitative genetics and statistics.
- Good knowledge and understanding of statistical data
analysis using statistical software and experimental design
is essential. However, further practical training will be
provided.
- Possess critical thinking and analytical skills as well
as the ability to work in a diverse team.
What the Bursary Offers:
This post-graduate bursary offers tuition fees and board and
lodging on site at our Sugarcane Research Institute in Mount
Edgecombe. The successful candidate will be based at SASRI
(Mount Edgecombe) and will register with one of the South
African Universities
The ideal candidate will have the following competencies:
Ability
- Critically review scientific literature
- Write a scientific research paper
- Analyse data and provide recommendations
Experience
- Analyising data and providing recommendations
- Preparing and presenting a research proposal
- Working with field trials
Knowledge
- Plant Breeding or Genetics at Honours level
- Statistical research methods applicable to Plant Breeding
or Genetics research
About The Employer
The South African Sugar Association (SASA) provides a diverse
range of highly specialised services to the South African
sugar industry and our activities are funded in the main by
the sugarcane growers and sugar milling companies. Our
mission is to provide specialist services that enhance the
profitability, global competitiveness and sustainability of
the South African sugar industry.
Employer & Job
Benefits
- Our highly sought after post-graduate bursary / research
programme offers tuition fees
- board and lodging on site at our Sugarcane Research
Institute in Mount Edgecombe together with a monthly stipend
of R5000 and numerous other benefits.
HOW TO APPLY
For latest South African Government Departments,
Municipalities, Parastatals Jobs / Vacancies visit
workforgov.co.za
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