Jennie Brierley

My main research interests are developing the use of molecular diagnostic techniques for the detection and quantification of seed and soil-borne potato pathogens: both as a research tool to investigate the epidemiology of potato pathogens, and in supporting the management of potatoes by quantifying disease risk. By employing appropriate sampling strategies in conjunction with DNA extraction and molecular real-time PCR techniques to detect and quantify target pathogens we can validate the relationship between detectable inoculum and disease risk. Furthermore, the impact of soil-borne inoculum on disease can be investigated in conjunction with other control factors such as host resistance, crop management and chemical control options. Much of my research has been collaborative, both within the UK and internationally. Research targets have been Spongospora subterranea (powdery scab); Colletotrichum coccodes (black dot); Rhizoctonia solani AG-3 (black scurf/stem canker); Helminthosporium solani (silver scurf) and pathogenic Streptomyces spp. (common scab).

At present I am focusing on the effect of crop management practices, in particular how soil organic matter content and cultivation affects the introduction and persistence of pathogens through a crop rotation. By comparing the soil microbiome under contrasting managment practices we hope to be able to identify whether sustainable soil management practices can have a positive effect on disease suppression though the creation of a healthy microbiome. This research utilizes the Centre for Sustainable Cropping: a long-term platform for research on arable sustainability.

I am the leader of the 'Diagnostic Tools' workpackage within the Scottish Government RESAS Project A1-2 'Integrated Crop Protection'. The aim is to develope tools and technologies to underpin plant health resilience and IPM. 

I am a key staff member involved in Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPM) research at The James Hutton Institute. For details of ongoing IPM research areas and projects, please visit the IPM@Hutton [2] website  http://ipm.hutton.ac.uk [3]

I am a postgraduate student liaison officer and member of the Postgraduate School Committee.