Biotechnology

Research Group Leader - Dr Effie Mutasa-Göttgens

Objectives

The key objective of our research group is to conduct molecular genetic characterisation of quality traits of the sugar beet crop. This is achieved through identification, cloning and transgenic analysis of trait-specific genes. Our ultimate aim is to understand the function of such genes and to use the information to develop strategies for crop improvement through conventional breeding and/or genetic manipulation.

Main Research Projects

• Gibberellin and its role during vernalization-induced floral induction in sugar beet.
• Identification and characterisation of sugar beet flowering time genes.
• Analysis of sugar beet cell wall composition and development.
• Construction of transgenic models and tools for the analysis of agronomic genes of interest.

Current group members

• Dr Effie Mutasa-Göttgens - Research Group Leader
• Dr Tansy Chia
• Dr Belinda Townsend
• Andrea Jennings
• Helen Holmes