PhD in Crop Sciences: Resilient Cocoa Varieties, Plant Physiology and Climate Resilience University of Reading in United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the University of Reading in Crop Sciences, focused on developing selection traits for breeding resilient cocoa varieties. The project is linked to Mondelēz International and addresses a major agricultural challenge: cocoa farmers facing unstable yields due to climate change.

The research theme combines plant physiology, climate resilience, agricultural sciences, and applied genetics. You would investigate how cocoa responds to drought and heat stress, work in controlled-environment growth chambers, and may have the opportunity to travel to cocoa-growing countries for fieldwork. The project also includes advanced techniques such as GWAS and molecular marker development with an industry R&D team.

This is a strong fit for candidates with a background in biological or agricultural sciences who want to contribute to sustainable cocoa production and global food systems. The post is presented as a PhD opportunity (ref: DRC25-139 / UKRI2282).

No specific deadline, stipend, or tuition details are stated in the post. Interested applicants should follow the linked opportunity and check the official application page for full eligibility and submission instructions.