YVONNE MARIE ARNSDORF

Profile: BSc (Hons): Botany/Biochemistry – St. Andrews University, UK
MSc by Research: Use of Molecular Markers to Characterise feral Oilseed Rape Populations – Dundee University, UK
PhD Molecular Markers for the Management of Theobroma cacao Genebanks – The University of Reading, UK
MSc course: Conservation and Management of Protected Areas – Edinburgh Napier University

Main Research Interest: the use of molecular techniques to advance our knowledge of natural systems and solve problems relevant to agriculture and the natural world.

Activity in POnTE: Non-destructive DNA extraction, PCR amplification and sequencing of Psyllid specimens (mainly CO1 and ITS2 regions) for the design of species specific assays and contribution to the Psyllid DNA/voucher specimen database.

Validation of species specific assays using real-time qPCR.

Participation in inter-laboratory trials of assays/methods with other POnTE partners.

The information derived from this work will be used to generate a set of diagnostic assays enabling the efficient identification of Psyllid species and provide early warning of potential disease vectors.