International Plant Biotechnology Outreach (IPBO) at UGent, in cooperation with the International Potato Center (CIP), organizes a short term course for students, scientists and professionals from the public and industrial sector, who are involved in local crop (potato) improvement or genetic manipulation regulatory programs.

This International training programme proposes fundamental background sessions on potato breeding, the use of molecular techniques in plant breeding, plant biotechnology, genetic transformation and new breeding techniques for potato. Experts from Europe and Africa will further give an overview of important biotic and abiotic stresses affecting the growth of potato and possible solutions to overcome these threats. In these sessions, special emphasis will be given on the effects of pests, diseases, fungal contamination, drought and climate change on the growth and yield of potato.

The course will continue with both theory and exercises for the understanding of the basic principles and methodologies of crop safety, risk assessment and science communication. The sessions will be interactive, including group work, presentations and discussions. The program also includes visits to a potato field trial and the processing industry.

VLIR-UOS supports this International training programme in Belgium with 12 scholarships for participants from the global South.

Admission requirements:

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  • Holder of at least a Bachelor (or equivalent) in Science, Plant Biotechnology, Agricultural or Bioengineering Sciences
  • Good knowledge of English
  • Preference will be given to participants from Africa involved in potato breeding
  • A balance between male and female participants will be achieved

Dates

The programme is organised from Tuesday 11th of June until Friday 28th of June 2019 (18 days).

Application deadline: 22 February 2019

More information about the programme and application

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