Booking options
£23.99
£23.99
On-Demand course
3 hours
Intermediate level
Welcome to Plant Breeding: Techniques and Genetic Innovation. In this course, you'll learn:
1. Overview of Plant Breeding
Introduction to the fundamental concepts and historical background of plant breeding.
Understanding the importance of plant breeding in agriculture and food security.
Overview of traditional vs modern plant breeding techniques.
2. Population and Quantitative Genetic Principles
Exploring population genetics principles and their applications in plant breeding.
Understanding quantitative genetics and its role in breeding for complex traits.
Hands-on exercises on quantitative trait analysis and selection strategies.
3. Reproductive Systems in Plant Breeding
Examination of different reproductive systems in plants and their implications for breeding.
Study of self-pollination, cross-pollination, and hybridization techniques.
Practical sessions on controlled pollination methods.
4. Germplasm for Breeding
Overview of germplasm resources and their significance in breeding programs.
Exploration of germplasm conservation strategies.
Hands-on activities on germplasm evaluation and utilization.
5. Breeding Objectives
Defining breeding objectives based on market demand, environmental challenges, and consumer preferences.
Case studies on setting breeding priorities for various crops.
Group discussions on aligning breeding objectives with societal needs.
6. Selection Methods in Plant Breeding
Examination of phenotypic and genotypic selection methods.
Understanding selection indices and their application in breeding programs.
Practical exercises on phenotype evaluation and marker-assisted selection.
7. Molecular Breeding
Introduction to molecular tools and techniques in plant breeding.
Genomic selection and marker-assisted breeding approaches.
Laboratory demonstrations on molecular marker analysis.
8. Marketing and Societal Issues in Breeding
Analysis of marketing strategies for new plant varieties.
Discussion on societal concerns such as GMOs, intellectual property rights, and ethical considerations.
Guest lectures from industry experts and policymakers.
9. Breeding Selected Crops
In-depth study of breeding methodologies for selected crops like cereals, vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
Field visits to breeding programs and seed companies.
Group projects on developing breeding strategies for specific crop targets.
This course is suitable for both current practitioners seeking to enhance their skills as well as individuals aspiring to enter any related profession. It is a valuable opportunity to advance your expertise and strengthen your CV since you will receive a recognised qualification upon completion.
This course is open to learners from any academic background who are aged 16 and above. While there are no strict prerequisites, having a good grasp of the English language, numeracy, and ICT will be beneficial for a more seamless learning experience.
Certainly! Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive a CPD Accredited Certificate of Achievement.