This paper explores how transcriptome analyses and gene transfer/editing technologies could be used to study plant metabolism, growth and development. Ultimately the aim is to develop strategies to improve plant growth but also develop food with new traits.
During the course, students will become familiar with the current literature and critical issues in selected topics in plant genomics and biotechnology. Students will learn how to read papers carefully and critique them properly, including assessing the experimental methods used, determining the key experimental findings of the paper, assessing the contribution the paper makes to the field and defining the experiments that should be done next. The course involves a mix of lectures, group and class discussions as well as individual work.
Students will gain experience in designing a strategy to develop a successful crop using a transgenic approach and write it up as a proposal and gain experience in designing and giving seminars to a scientific audience.
The course is well suited for students with a background in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology and/or plant molecular biology. Suggested papers for the University of Auckland as background could include BIOSCI 326 (Plant Biotechnology for Crop and Health) and BIOSCI 351 Molecular Genetics. Students taking this paper will be well prepared to pursue a career in private biotechnology companies, crown research institutes, primary industry sector or university research groups.