Fiona Corke

Fiona Corke is a Post-Doctoral Research Assistant and Smarthouse Manager at the National Plant Phenomics Centre within the Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University. With expertise in plant genetics, phenomics, and molecular biology, she coordinates experimental design in robotic glasshouse facilities, advises on ground truth data collection, and leads public engagement initiatives.

• Roles: Smarthouse Manager, Researcher, STEM Ambassador
• Key Collaborations: Sainsbury Lab, John Innes Centre, international partners

Research Interests: Focus on genetic and cellular mechanisms underlying seed/grain size variation, drought response in cereals (oat, wheat, tef), and climate-resilient crops. Utilizes Brachypodium distachyon as a model species for agronomic cereal research.

Outreach & Public Engagement: Regularly conducts tours for politicians, farmers, students, and media. Featured in BBC Countryfile TV (2023), Royal Welsh Show, and BBSRC Great British Bioscience Festival. Work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for climate action and zero hunger.

Technical Expertise: Advanced in Priva glasshouse software, plant transformation, and Arabidopsis mutant characterization. Leads teams in experimental execution and facility management.