Instructor(s): Blaine Johnson, Ph.D., and Lorena Dumbá (email)
Number of Units: 1
Estimated Time of Completion: 40-60 hours
Please note that actual time required to complete this module will vary based on the learner’s previous background and/or experience with the concepts presented in this module.
Description: This module is an introduction to the processes of a comprehensive and sustainable hybrid breeding program that creates, evaluates, and releases or commercializes genetically improved hybrids. Participants will gain knowledge of: (a) Terminology used in hybrid breeding; (b) The design of a comprehensive, end-to-end breeding program that results in continuous genetic improvement over time and generations; (c) The multiple stages of parental line development and hybrid evaluation and advancement; (d) The importance of heterosis and the development and utilization of germplasm pools in both parental line and hybrid development. Knowledge and experience are gained through a combination of recorded lectures and interactive workshops centered on real-world hybrid breeding examples, heavily based on maize breeding with a strong industry perspective.
Prerequisites: Strong background in mendelian genetics and basic knowledge of plant-based research is strongly recommended.
Registration:
- Register for An Introduction to Hybrid Breeding: Understanding the Process
- Upon registration and payment of module, participants will be emailed instructions on how to access the module (account creation/login, enrollment key, etc.).
Course Requirements & Materials:
- Technical Requirements: Access to high-speed internet and email, with up-to-date browsers and the ability to view videos (recommended browsers include Firefox, Chrome, and Safari) and access to Zoom for optional help sessions.
- Textbooks: No textbook is required. All course materials are shared online in Campus eXtension and PASSeL.
- Free background information on genetics can also be found at https://ge.unl.edu/.
This Course is Ideal For…
- Plant Breeding & Genetics students
- Researchers, production specialists, and staff working in the seed industry
- Certified professional agronomists, crop consultants, and crop advisors who want to understand the development and delivery of hybrid seed
- Individuals who wish to learn the process by which genetically improved hybrids are developed, evaluated, and released or commercialized