Jasper Barnes: How Plant Biology at Aberystwyth helped prepare me for a career

Studying Plant Biology at Aberystwyth University gave me a strong foundation in plant physiology, genetics, and biotechnology. The course combined theory with hands-on learning in labs and glasshouses, preparing me for a career in plant research and development.

I now work as a Laboratory Assistant at Elsoms Seeds, where I support plant micropropagation, pathology and molecular work. My role is varied and includes maintaining lab cleanliness, stocking and sterilising equipment, and ensuring a safe, efficient working environment. I also provide horticultural care in growth rooms and glasshouses for numerous breeding programmes and research projects.

A key part of supporting the pathology research includes plant pathogen subculture for trials and scoring disease trials and supporting the breeding efforts for disease resistance. Additionally, I contribute to micropropagation projects, performing tissue culture techniques such as leaf culture, anther culture, and embryo culture. These methods aid in the production of uniform breeding lines.

Aberystwyth gave me the academic knowledge and technical skills to thrive in this role. Through a combination of the academic and practical training provided through my degree, but additionally the opportunities offered, including working at the Granary in Gogerddan and volunteering at the university glasshouses. These aspects combined made my time at Aberystwyth invaluable, and the supportive staff made my time there unforgettable. Looking ahead, I aim to pursue postgraduate study and specialise further in plant genetics and crop improvement.

Learn more about our Plant Biology courses HERE