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Alexander Buckingham
Masters project: Using chlorophyll fluorescence imaging as a method for detecting herbicidal modes of action Light energy absorbed by chlorophyll molecules in a leaf can undergo one of three fates: it can be used to drive photosynthesis (photochemistry/photochemical quenching), it can be dissipated as heat (non-photochemical quenching), or be re‐emitted as light at a slightly longer wavelength —known as chlorophyll fluorescence, and can be used to determine the light use efficiency of the plant. These three processes occur in constant competition, with any increase in the efficiency of one causing a decrease in the efficiency of the other two. Due to the underlying relationship between the three processes, chlorophyll fluorescence can therefore be used to determine the operating efficiency of photosynthesis. This project is split into two sections: 1. Using chlorophyll fluorescence imaging to screen herbicide modes of action (specifically for those that bind PSII) 2. Screening these same herbicides and understanding the influence that adjuvants have on their efficacy. Research interests:
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