Prof. Erik Murchie
Division of Plant and Crop Sciences, University of Nottingham
Prof. Erik Murchie holds a chair in Applied Plant Physiology at the University of Nottingham. With a keen interest in photosynthesis and plant physiology, his research focuses on metabolic and physiological responses to the environment with a particular passion for crops under field conditions. Recent work in his research group has included 3D architecture of cereal canopies and the interaction with photosynthesis, manipulation of photoprotection in rice, nocturnal conductance in wheat, and the exploration of diverse wheat and rice germplasm for dynamic photosynthesis and heat tolerance.
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7465-845X https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=sCJBTVAAAAAJ&hl=en
Title: Moving photosynthesis between lab and field: how many dimensions?
Webinar date: Tuesday 2nd May 14.00 CEST
Abstract: Leaf photosynthesis and its underlying components are readily measured and separated in the lab and controlled growth conditions using the right equipment. In the field this can also be done but understanding and separating the effect of complex environments and then understanding the contribution that photosynthetic properties make to productivity is more challenging, but achievable. This is especially the case when considering the role of dynamic photosynthesis in fluctuating light. Here I would like to talk about the role of canopy structure and microenvironment in determining photosynthetic productivity, with a particular focus on dynamic light and field experimentation. I’ll present collaborative work showing how the 3D structure of canopies determines patterns of light switching (sunflecks) in cereals and other canopy types. Movement of plants creates related effects, ‘windflecks’, which are a poorly understood factor, the so-called 4th dimension. Lastly, I would like to present data showing how we may understand and quantify the important (but under-represented) contribution that photosynthesis and photoprotection from lower canopy positions makes to productivity and yield. Throughout I would like to highlight international collaboration and ways forward for further understanding and applying photosynthesis-science in agriculture.