PBR-33803 Germplasm and Seed Technology (DL)

Course

Credits 3.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Principles of Plant Breeding.

Contents:

Note: This course has a maximum number of participants. The deadline for registration is one week earlier than usual. See Academic Year.(http://www.wageningenur.nl/en/Education-Programmes/Current-Students/Agenda-Calendar-Academic-Year.htm) -> Registration for Courses.
Note: The period mentioned below is the period in which this course starts. For the exact academic weeks see the courseplanning on www.wur.eu/schedule.

This course introduces students to a number of important aspects of plant breeding, such as the process of domestication, germplasm development and the importance of gene banks. Also, important practical aspects on bringing a cultivar to the market are discussed, such as breeders rights and patents, and the design of seed and plant production programs. Attention to financial aspects of breeding programs will also be given. Seed physiology and seed quality aspects receive thorough attention, because in many cases the seed is the actual product that is sold by breeding companies.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- explain the theory of domestication, the gene pool concept, and the process of germplasm development;
- explain the importance of gene banks and explain how they work;
- explain and discuss the principles of breeders rights and patents;
- understand how seed production programs are designed;
- evaluate planning and financial aspects of breeding programs;
- understand seed quality aspects and explain how seed quality can be improved.

Activities:

- watch knowledge clips;
- hand-in assignments;
- watch DVD/YouTube movie and answer questions;
- interact with peers and supervisors in discussions;
- peer-learning activities;
- read book chapters.

Examination:

The exam is an online remotely proctored exam, where the student should provide a suitable computer and room.

Literature:

Book chapters: Seeds, Physiology of Development, Germination and Dormancy (3rd ed.) J. Derek Bewley, Kent J. Bradford, Henk W.M. Hilhorst and Hiro Nonogaki, 2013. Springer, 392 pp.; DVD/YouTube: Seed hunter.