AsianScientist (Apr. 5, 2011) – Bayer CropScience has opened an expanded seed research laboratory in Singapore to research into new high-yielding and high-quality seed varieties and hybrids.
Representing an investment around EUR 20 million (US$28.5 million) over the next five years, the new research unit will work with cutting-edge technologies like DNA marker analysis and molecular assisted breeding.
The scientists at the new facility will work to screen and integrate innovative agronomic and quality traits in canola, corn, cotton, wheat, soybean and rice.
Agronomic traits of interest include novel modes or enhanced resistance to diseases, pests and environmental stress. Quality traits of interest include for example better storability, easier processing, improved grain quality and nutritional profile, better cooking features and enhanced fiber quality in the case of cotton.
Additionally, work will also be focused on plant pathology for better control of diseases.
The expanded lab facility will enable the identification, validation, and deployment of new high-throughput and cost-effective molecular markers and marker detection systems to support the company’s elite breeding programs.
“Singapore has an established research and development structure and is a source of skilled staff. The new facility will increase the breeding capacity of Bayer CropScience”, said Sandra E. Peterson, CEO of Bayer CropScience.
While Singapore is not an agricultural country, Singapore’s capabilities, infrastructure and an intellectual property environment can still be leveraged by leading agribusinesses to undertake regional R&D activities, said Choon Shian Tan, Deputy Managing Director of Economic Development Board (EDB), Singapore.
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Source: Bayer CropScience.
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