The five-day workshop “Summer Institute in Plant Breeding” was held at Ghent University’s Technologiepark campus in Zwijnaarde, Belgium. Researchers Ana Nikolić and Manja Božić from MRI participated in the modules “Genomewide Markers in Plant Breeding” and “Data Bootcamp for Genomic Prediction in Plant Breeding”. The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in applying modern trends in plant breeding.
Plant Breeding Module 1: Lecture by Dr. Rex Bernardo
Session 1: Foundations of Plant Breeding and Marker-Assisted Selection
- Review of plant breeding principles
- Overview of marker-assisted selection (MAS) strategies
- Fundamentals of population and quantitative genetics
- Computer exercises on quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping
Session 2: Mapping Techniques and Applications
- Linkage mapping in biparental populations
- Association mapping methodologies
- Computer exercises in linkage and association mapping
Session 3: Advanced Selection Strategies
- Marker-assisted selection for major QTL
- F2 enrichment techniques
- Introduction to genomewide selection
Session 4: Genomewide Prediction
- Theory and framework for genomewide prediction
- Key factors influencing prediction accuracy
- Computer exercises in genomewide prediction
Session 5: Integration and Practical Applications
- Best practices in integrating markers into breeding programs
- Challenges and considerations for successful implementation
The module “Data Bootcamp for Genomic Prediction in Plant Breeding” by Dr. Aaron Lorenz focused on key concepts and practical approaches in genomic prediction for plant breeding:
- Sessions 1-2: Covered data formatting and quality control for genotype/phenotype datasets, implementation of various prediction models, and cross-validation techniques to assess prediction accuracy.
- Sessions 3-4: Explored strategies for training population optimization, multi-trait prediction, genomic prediction for genotype × environment interactions, and predicting outcomes of potential crosses.
- Session 5: Discussed specialized topics in genomic prediction and provided an overview of available tools for implementing these methods.
During this workshop, attendees were introduced to innovative plant breeding approaches through case studies and had the opportunity to apply their acquired knowledge in practice.
