SCI Agrisciences Group is partnering with the KTN (Knowledge Transfer Network) to stage the first New Frontiers in Crop Research conference. The one-day event will be held at SCI’s International Headquarters on 20 October 2016. The programme will provide all those involved in the Agri-Food sector with an update on some of the most exciting areas of crop research.
The event is sponsored by BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council). James Phillips, a member of BBSRC’s business unit with responsibility for the crop production and processing sectors will open the conference with an overview of how the Research Councils support innovation in partnership with leading companies through Research Technology Clubs. The Clubs fund projects relevant to all sectors of the bioeconomy including: agriculture, food and drink, chemicals and materials, energy production, human health, environmental protection, and enabling technologies.
Many of the speakers are participating in these clubs and this will be a good opportunity to catch-up on the latest results from cutting-edge research, and make new contacts.
The general topic for the morning session will be enhancing the growth and yield of crops. Papers will include several covering ways to mitigate against abiotic stresses such as drought and nutrient deficiency. Others will discuss genetic manipulation of microorganisms in the root zone to increase the yield of oilseed rape; high throughput phenotyping of root systems; and a web-based knowledge exchange system for integrated pest management.
The theme after lunch will be improving the quality of harvested material. Speakers will cover new technologies being used to find innovative solutions to problems in wheat, malting barley and fresh produce.
SCI's organising partner organisation, the Knowledge Transfer Network, have recently also released an article on trends, challenges and technological innovations in the agri-food industry. The full article is available via the links below.
Alan Baylis
Chair, SCI Agrisciences Group
Related Links
- New Frontiers in Crop Research, 20 October 2016 - register today!
- SCI Agrisciences Group
- What are the megatrends in the agri-food industry and what challenges do they present?
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