PLBR 7160 - Perspectives in Plant Breeding Strategies

Spring. 3 credits.

Prerequisite: PLBR 4030. Offered alternate odd years.

M. E. Sorrells.

Emphasizes critical discussion and evaluation of selected benchmark papers and current literature. Reviews and discusses conventional and molecular selection techniques and breeding objectives, methods, and strategies for both self- and cross-pollinated crops. Requires extensive outside reading. Grades are based on four papers demonstrating creative thinking and analysis of plant breeding concepts.

Outcome 1: They will be able to convey to professional and lay audiences, orally and in writing, advanced concepts relating to strategies for crop improvement.

Outcome 2: They will understand the fundamental concepts that underlie a well designed breeding program to improve both quantitative and qualitative traits in plant.

Outcome 3: They will have a vision for the future trends that will transform plant breeding in the coming decade.

Outcome 4: They will have an appreciation for the central role that crop improvement plays in global food security, health and well-being.