Genetics research

“Research into crop genetics has underpinned the yield increases and improvements in quality seen since the 1960s. Plant breeding continues to make use of genetics and new molecular techniques to boost crop performance even further.”

Dr Ellie Marshall – Research and KT Manager

Often the best weapon against pests and diseases is a plant’s own defence mechanisms. HGCA-supported research looks for resistance genes which can be bred into elite crop varieties. Projects also look at how plant immune systems respond to changes in the environment and pathogen evolution.

Completed genetics research projects

Completed variety research projects

Related research articles

• Take it all back using genes (May 2014*)
• Genes hold key to fighting septoria (Mar 2014*)
• Roots hold answer to better yields (Dec 2013*)
• Breeding route to better bread (Sep 2013**)
• Evolution solution to crop protection conundrum (Sep 2013**)
• GM crops back in the arable arena (Jul 2013*)
• Strengthen your crops through unity (Mar 2013*)
• Varietal performance in drought prone soils (Dec 2012*)
• Keeping barley world class (Mar 2012**)

*Research in Focus article. **Theory to Field article.