The evolutionary success and enormous diversity among flowering plants is mainly the result of the sexual reproduction process, which starts with flowering and results in the formation of fruits and seeds. This key process is under tight genetic and molecular control, but is also adapted to the environment. How such a conserved process can show flexibility remains an intriguing question. In this advanced course the latest breakthroughs and trends in plant reproduction research will be discussed with a focus on molecular and genetic mechanisms and the impact of ‘omics’ – technologies. Included topics: flowering time control; flower organ formation; evolution of reproductive processes; gametophyte development and fertilization; fruit set; seed development.
Students will not only get insight in the complex molecular and genetic networks underlying plant reproduction, but will also get acquainted with writing of a research proposal, how to design a well-thought and focused research question, and how to address this research question.
