Mr Grant Terblanche



MSc student

Department
Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology
Full CV
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My Supervisor/s

Primary Supervisor
Tuan Duong

Co Supervisor
Brenda Wingfield
Mike Wingfield

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I am a motivated MSc Biotechnology candidate, specializing in fungal genetics and genetic engineering at FABI. Under the supervision and guidance of Prof. Tuan Duong, my research aims to elucidate the determinants of host-specificity factors in Ceratocystis.

My first chapter aims to identify host-specific genetic elements in phytopathogenic fungi, across all available literature. My second chapter focuses on the development of a selection marker recycling system for the sequential transformation of Ceratocystis. In my final chapter I will cross two closely related species of Ceratocystis and using host-specificity as a selection for host-specific genetic elements, we will be able to identify said genetic elements in Ceratocystis fimbriata and Ceratocystis eucalypticola. 

Prior to my MSc studies, I gained experience working in the lab through third year Microbiology (MBY361) and Biochemistry (BCM351) undergraduate modules. I then honed in on my Laboratory proficiency and optimization. I began my position as Laboratory Manager at FABI, in Jan of 2024; where I honed my skills in laboratory management and research coordination. My academic journey has been driven by a passion for understanding fungal genetics and contributing to advancements in biotechnology. ​

Research Interests:

  • Fungal genetics and host-pathogen interactions​

  • Genetic engineering and transformation systems​

  • Biotechnology applications in agriculture and forestry​