Practical Research 1: Plant Breeding and Genetics Overview

Practical Research 1 Topic Overview

Practical Research 1 is a course offered by the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics at Wageningen University & Research. This introductory subject explores various aspects of plant breeding and genetics, including concepts related to genetic variation, inheritance patterns, recombination, gene mapping, and breeding methods. The course provides students with hands-on experience in handling plant material, conducting experiments, carrying out molecular analyses, and using software tools for data analysis.

Course Content Structure

The course consists of several modules, each focusing on specific topics within plant breeding and genetics. These modules include:

1. Get started: Introduction to plant breeding, goals, and objectives of practical research 1
2. Variation in plants: The concept of heritability, inheritance patterns, and their effect on phenotypic parameters
3. Basic principles and techniques for studying segregating populations: Understanding population structures and concepts such as selection, mutagenesis, cybridization, and the use of synthetic varieties
4. Concepts and techniques for quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping: Explore the basics of QTL mapping, linkage mapping, marker assisted selection, association mapping, and genetic linkage maps
5. Frontiers in plant breeding and genomics: Learn about emerging technologies and trends in plant breeding, including CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, whole genome sequencing, genomic prediction models, and germplasm collection strategies
6. Applications of plant breeding and genomics: Examine how plant breeding and genomics can benefit agricultural production, food security, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity conservation

Learning Outcomes and Assessment

By the end of this course, students will have gained knowledge in the following areas:

1. Foundations of plant breeding and genetics, with a focus on understanding genetic variation, inheritance patterns, and breeding methods
2. Current developments in plant breeding and genomics, including CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, whole genome sequencing, and genomic prediction models
3. Hands-on experience working with plant material, conducting experiments, analyzing molecular data, and using software tools for data analysis

Assessment includes written assignments, quizzes, practical exercises, and a final exam. Students will also participate in group work and collaborative projects throughout the course.