Brandon Thompson

Areas of expertise

• Food Quality

Research opportunities

Brandon Thompson is currently undertaking a PhD at Cranfield University, where his research focuses on developing bruise-resilient Solanum tuberosum cv. Maris Piper potatoes through gene editing approaches. His project integrates transcriptomic analyses with genome editing to functionally validate candidate genes associated with internal bruising susceptibility, with the aim of reducing postharvest waste and improving supply chain resilience. Prior to this, he completed an MRes at Edge Hill University, where he investigated DNA barcoding techniques for identifying apomictic microspecies within the Rubus fruticosus agg. complex. His broader research interests span crop improvement, postharvest biology, functional genomics, and food security, with a particular emphasis on bridging molecular biology with applied agricultural outcomes. He is currently working with the Postharvest Research Group at Cranfield University, in collaboration with industry and CTP-SAI partners.

Current activities

Brandon is currently engaged in a BBSRC-CTP-funded PhD at Cranfield University focused on enhancing bruise resilience in Solanum tuberosum cv. Maris Piper through transcriptomics-guided gene editing. His core research activities include:

- RNAseq-based transcriptomic profiling of bruised and non-bruised potato tuber tissue to identify candidate genes associated with internal bruising.

- Development of editing constructs targeting differentially expressed candidate loci for functional validation.

- Transformation and regeneration of edited plant tissue into microtubers, followed by phenotypic and biochemical evaluation of edited lines.

- Integration of molecular biology, postharvest physiology, and supply chain perspectives to reduce mechanical damage-related losses in commercial potato production.

Alongside his core research, Brandon is building expertise in postharvest biology, plant molecular genetics, and the application of bioinformatics and statistical tools for functional genomics. He is also involved in collaborative discussions with industrial and academic partners through the CTP-SAI network and contributes to the wider research activities of Cranfield’s Postharvest Research Group.

Clients

• Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
• J Sainsbury PLC