Potato genetics, unlike the genetics of other major crops, has experienced limited progress due to the complexity of its tetrasomic inheritance. However, the potato genetics group (Hein, Chen, and Adams) has made significant strides in this field. Their work has successfully developed molecular markers for disease resistances, which have been validated by JHL (Vanessa Young and Drummond Todd) and are now routinely offered to commercial companies. This advancement has substantially accelerated the selection of new potato varieties. The collaboration between JHI and JHL marks a pivotal shift from traditional approaches, fostering mutual benefits. Research innovations, such as targeted enrichment sequencing and haplotype-based insights derived from RenSeq, GenSeq, and BrenSeq, are validated within real-world breeding scenarios. This integration informs parental selection and progeny prioritisation, streamlining the breeding process at JHL. Recently, the genetics team has demonstrated in proof-of-concept studies that haplotype-based information can be translated into highly robust markers including KASPs, showcasing the potential for further breakthroughs. This project has been jointly developed by JHI and JHL Aims and Objectives This proposal seeks to build on the successes of the potato genetics group and JHL and further strengthen the interface between research and breeding. Specifically, we aim to develop a bespoke marker platform to serve both research and breeding needs. This initiative is critical for maintaining the competitive edge gained in recent years and aligns with the industry’s trajectory toward large-scale, marker-based selection at the seedling stage. This 4 year studentship opportunity is open to UK students and provides funding to cover stipend, UK tuition fees and consumable/travel costs. Students must meet the eligibility criteria as outlined in the UKRI guidance on UK and international candidates. Applicants will have a first-class honours degree in a relevant subject or a 2.1 honours degree plus Masters (or equivalent). This project is based at the Dundee site of the James Hutton Institute, UK.