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BASF and Molecular Plant Breeding CRC strengthen cooperation to develop genetically optimized wheat
Multimillion dollar agreement on developing high yielding wheat that is more resistant to drought and fungal diseases

13 Jun 2006 - BASF Plant Science and the Molecular Plant Breeding Cooperative Research Centre (MPBCRC) announced the expansion of their joint research and development program. The objective is to develop high yielding wheat varieties that are at the same time more resistant to fungal diseases and adverse environmental conditions such as drought. The joint program with an overall budget of approximately EUR 17 million (equivalent to AUD 28 million) has been scheduled for seven years and involves 25 scientists based at MPBCRC.
 
"We are intensifying the cooperation with MPBCRC, because the results achieved to date have exceeded our expectations," states Dr. Hans Kast, President and CEO of BASF's plant biotechnology company.
 
As part of the joint research program, BASF Plant Science is making available its comprehensive collection of gene candidates for yield increase, drought tolerance and resistance to fungal diseases. MPBCRC will provide expertise and a patented technique for developing highly effective genetic modifications of wheat under typical agricultural conditions.