Plant Breeding
Apply to Be a StudentRelease Date: January 2026 (Runs Alternate Years)
Lead Organisation: IBERS, Aberystwyth University
New crop and forage varieties are key to meeting global challenges
This module is designed to give those with an interest in plant breeding a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to bring a variety from concept to market. Featured crops include: beans, peas, oats, ryegrass, clover and energy crops. We consider all aspects of what makes a commercial plant breeding program successful. Real datasets will demonstrate the challenges a breeder faces when making selections. You will undertake case studies to look in depth at the process of breeding a crop of your choice.
Content:
- Plant reproductive biology
- Control of pollination and uses in breeding
- Breeding systems for self and cross-pollinated plant species
- Defining breeding objectives
- Trait measurement and selection methods
- Agricultural experimentation and trial design
- Defining breeding objectives
- Variety legislation and commercialisation
- Marker-assisted and genome wide selection
- Utilising diversity, mutant and biotechnology in breeding
Assessments and Learning Outcomes for this module can be found HERE
Apply to Be a StudentQualifications which this Module may be Used Towards
| PGCert Nuffield Farming Scholarship | Option |
|---|---|
| MSc Sustainable Agriculture | Option |
| MSc Agrifood Innovation | Option |
| MRes Agriculture | Option |
| MRes Agrifood Innovation | Option |
| Professional Doctorate in Agriculture | Option |
| Professional Doctorate in BioInnovation | Option |
Tutors
| Tutors Name |
|---|
| Dr Sarah Watson-Jones |
Testimonials
“I will be able to set up a client orientated plant breeding programme involving local researchers and farmers.”
The module is very good, it has covered all aspects of plant production and plant breeding. The support and assistance are excellent. I have developed an understanding of how to take forward my own research on agricultural seed production linked to the geographical area and the needs farmers.