Biography
Prior to his work on the TIGR2ESS Dr Jackson has worked on the use high-throughput phenotyping of large scale field trials in genomic selection, and the development of climate change resilient UK wheat. Prior to joining NIAB Robert worked as a research assistant at Rothamsted Research, looking at the use of remote sensing in analysing grain development. Robert attained his PhD on the “Chemical Dissection of the Gibberellin Signalling Pathway” from the University of Nottingham and Rothamsted Research following a MSc in Plant Genetic Manipulation at the University of Nottingham.
Qualifications
- 2014: PhD Molecular Biology, University of Nottingham/Rothamsted Research.
- 2009: MSc Plant Genetic Manipulation, University of Nottingham.
- 2008: BSc Biology, University of Bath.
Research
Robert works as part of the phenotyping group within the Genetics and Breeding department at NIAB. During his career Robert has developed expertise in numerous phenotyping techniques, both remote sensing and practical, and how to apply them in different environments. In addition, Robert has experience in both molecular biology and quantitative genetics.
As part of the TIGR2ESS project Robert is focused on the development of climate change resilient wheat in collaboration with Rothamsted Research, Punjab Agricultural University and ICRISAT. Robert’s primary focus as part of Flagship Project 3 is the effect of drought on wheat development. This work intertwines with other climate change resilience projects Robert is working on whilst at NAIB.
Robert’s research interests focus on field phenotyping by remote sensing and how it can contribute to solving the problems facing modern agriculture. In addition, Robert retains an interest in the genetic and hormonal control of plant growth and development.
Publications
Atkinson, J., Jackson, R., Bentley, A., Ober, E., & Wells, D. (2018). Field Phenotyping for the Future. Annual Plant Reviews Online. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/9781119312994.apr0651
