Markers in Quantitative Genetics and Plant Breeding (online)
In this course, the students will be made familiar with the use of molecular markers in genetic research and plant breeding, the estimation of genetic distance based on marker genotype frequencies in different types of segregating populations, the construction of linkage maps, concepts and applications of quantitative genetics, the analysis of quantitative trait loci (QTLs)
Data Analysis for Biosystems Engineering
The following topics will be addressed in the course: linear regression and multiple linear regression, including model formulation, meaning of model parameters, checking model assumptions and prediction; data transformation; experimental design, including completely randomized design, block design and factorial design, and calculating the required sample size to obtain a certain precision; analysis of variance and
Genomics and Bioinformatics
Genomics is a new area of research that relates to holistic study of the genome a the gene, transcript, protein and metabolite levels. Due to the large amounts of data involved in this study computer tools are extensively used. During the course we will present basic concepts of genomics and introduce students to the problems
Germplasm and Seed Technology
This course introduces students to a number of important aspects of plant breeding, such as the process of domestication, germplasm development and the importance of gene banks. Also, important practical aspects on bringing a cultivar to the market are discussed, such as breeders’ rights and patents, and the design of seed and plant production programs.
Plant Biotechnology (online)
Plant biotechnology is a discipline that connects the new insights into genes and their products with the end product that is destined for the market. As with other technological disciplines, plant biotechnology comprises a mixture of many other scientific areas of biological sciences such as molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology and genetics. In this course we
Introduction Biosystems Engineering part 1
This course is the introduction to the field of Biosystems Engineering (Agrotechnologie in Dutch). The course is split in two parts. The focus of part 1 is on getting to know the most commonly used technology in the main primary production sectors: arable farming of field crops, greenhouse plant production, livestock farming. The focus of
Machine Learning (WUR)
Machine Learning deals with algorithms that predict certain outputs (such as crop yields or traits) given previously unseen input data from cameras, other sensors, maps, molecular measurements etc. These algorithms learn how to do so using training data (sets of input examples, usually with corresponding outputs). Machine learning plays an increasingly important role in many
Advanced Crop Physiology
Understanding crop physiology is of utmost importance for adapting agriculture to the challenges associated to climate change and environmental degradation. While molecular biology has made impressive strides in elucidating the regulation of processes in plants, the challenge remains to understand what this means for processes in real crops as this is the level at which
New Trends in Plant Breeding
This course aims at sparking interest in a wide array of topics, which can be useful for a career in plant breeding industry or in science. Subjects treated are at a higher integration level, not only taking into account plant breeding aspects, but regarding all aspects involved, such as environmental issues, products and chain issues,
Advanced Cellular Imaging Techniques
Advanced light microscopy and reporter gene techniques are indispensable for mechanistic studies on the functioning and organization of cells. New microscopy technologies and digital imaging allow us to study dynamic processes at shorter time scales and with higher spatial resolution in living cells. In this practical course the principles and cell biological application of different