PhD Candidate for

Department of Ecology, Environment, and Plant Sciences

Stockholm University
+923367816473 qudratullahmpur2@gmail.com
Dear Hiring Committee,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the PhD position as part of the project "Unlocking genetic variation
for climate adaptation of crops" under the supervision of Prof. Tanja Slotte at the Department of Ecology,
Environment, and Plant Sciences. With a fervent passion for environmental research and a robust academic
background, I am compelled to contribute to this pivotal project aimed at addressing the urgent need for
agricultural adaptation to a changing climate.

My journey in environmental research began at the Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI) in Faisalabad,
Pakistan, where I spent a transformative year exploring the intricacies of genetic variation in crops. During my
tenure, I delved into research projects focused on wheat and flax, gaining invaluable insights into the genetic
mechanisms underlying drought tolerance. This experience equipped me with a deep understanding of plant
genetics and the potential of crop wild relatives as untapped resources for enhancing food security and fiber
production in the face of climate change.

Furthermore, my academic endeavors at Government College University Faisalabad, where I pursued both my
Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Environmental Science, have provided me with a solid foundation in ecology
and evolution. My research on utilizing Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPRs) for cadmium
remediation in wheat plants grown in contaminated soil not only honed my laboratory skills but also instilled in
me a strong sense of purpose to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

Furthermore, beyond my academic pursuits, I had the privilege of gaining hands-on experience in the field of
ecology and evolution at a renowned research center in Faisalabad. During my tenure from 2022 to 2023, I
actively contributed to projects focused on understanding wild genetic variation for food security and fiber
production in a changing climate. Working with wheat and flax, I immersed myself in studying the genetic
adaptations of these crops to environmental stressors, particularly drought. This practical experience not only
reinforced my theoretical knowledge but also instilled in me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of genetic
variation and its implications for agricultural sustainability. It was during this time that I realized the crucial role
of interdisciplinary research in addressing pressing environmental challenges and solidified my commitment to
contributing meaningfully to this endeavor.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have demonstrated proficiency in statistical analysis with R and SPSS,
as well as bioinformatics analyses, which are crucial for unraveling the genetic basis of climate adaptation in
crops. Moreover, my IELTS certification attests to my proficiency in English, ensuring effective communication
and collaboration in an international research environment.

I am particularly drawn to this project's interdisciplinary approach and its potential to revolutionize crop breeding
strategies for enhanced resilience to climate change. The opportunity to collaborate with esteemed researchers at
Stockholm University and partner institutions aligns perfectly with my aspirations to contribute to cutting-edge
research with real-world impact.

In conclusion, I am eager to bring my diverse skill set, passion for environmental science, and dedication to
collaborative research to the PhD program at Stockholm University. I am confident that my background and
experiences have prepared me well to contribute meaningfully to the objectives of this project and to advance
knowledge in the field of ecology and evolution.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to further discuss how my
qualifications and motivations align with the goals of the project.

Warm regards,
Qudrat Ullah 05/04/2024