Supervised practical application of previously studied theory
in the area of plant breeding. Students will directly interact
with scientists directing applied breeding programs on an array
of crops.
Athena Title
Plant Breeding Practicum
Non-Traditional Format
Course consists of a series of field trips to visit and interact
with plant breeders on the Athens, Griffin, and Tifton campuses.
Prerequisite
PBGG(CRSS)(HORT) 4140/6140 or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered summer semester every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will understand the basics of plant breeding programs; how they are planned, implemented, financed, and managed.
Students will understand plant breeding techniques unique to specific crops/traits.
Students will be able to design a basic plant breeding program.
Topical Outline
Hands-on experiences with public and private plant breeding programs, including tours and interactions.
Plant reproduction and corresponding breeding strategies.
Field-plot technique and design.
Role and use of marker-assisted selection and genomic selection.
Introgression of conventional and transgenic traits.
Data collection and analysis.
Role of inter-disciplinary teams.
Intellectual Property and the cultivar release process.
Program resource management (personnel and financial).
Course project demonstrating students’ understanding of a basic plant breeding program, including germplasm resources, breeding strategies, field design, use of modern technologies (e.g., marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, gene editing, & transgenes), budgetary and personnel needs, and intellectual property.
