21 Feb 2014

Scientists get gen on genetics

12:06 pm on 21 February 2014

More than 40 primary-sector scientists from around the country are in Palmerston North this week to learn more about the tools they can use in genetic research.

They're attending a workshop hosted by AgResearch on the art of DNA sequencing technologies and, more specifically, genotyping by sequencing.

The technology was developed by AgResearch scientist Rob Elshire when he was at Cornell University in the United States. He and two former Cornell colleagues are showing how it can be used to develop genetic marker systems for a range of uses, such as improvements in sheep breeding .

The technology is currently being used in Plant and Food Research's kiwifruit breeding programme.