The agreement for the provision of a research and implementation service entitled ‘Introduction of new genomic technologies (NGT) into the breeding programmes of companies within the Krajowa Grupa Spożywcza S.A. Capital Group’ was signed on 20 August at the headquarters of Poznańska Hodowla Roślin Sp. z o.o. in Tulce.
The University of Silesia in Katowice plays a key role in the development of modern science, which has a tangible impact on our daily lives. Through the Research Centre for New Genomic Techniques, our university has access to unique laboratory facilities, state-of-the-art equipment and a team of outstanding experts. It is precisely these resources that enable us to conduct advanced research in the field of new genomic techniques (NGT).
What are new genomic techniques (NGT)?
They are modern, extremely precise tools of molecular biology that enable precise modifications to be made to the genetic material of plants and other organisms. Thanks to them, we can develop new varieties of crops much more quickly and accurately than before, which will be better adapted to challenging conditions, such as climate change, droughts, and diseases.
The involvement of researchers from the University of Silesia in this groundbreaking project goes beyond mere laboratory work. The planned activities will bring tangible benefits, including:
- the advancement of Polish science, through the establishment of a strong, national research infrastructure in the field of modern applied genomics;
- support for plant breeding and agriculture, through the transfer of knowledge to the economy;
- safe food for everyone, through innovations that strengthen domestic agriculture and help ensure Poland’s food security.
The official signing ceremony was attended on behalf of the University of Silesia by the head of research, Marek Marzec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. Director of the Research Centre for New Genomic Techniques. Also present were Grzegorz Wrona, Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of State Assets, and representatives of the institutions signing the agreement, namely Krajowa Grupa Spożywcza S.A., Poznańska Hodowla Roślin Sp. z o.o., DANKO Hodowla Roślin Sp. z o.o., Małopolska Hodowla Roślin Sp. z o.o. and Kutnowska Hodowla Buraka Cukrowego Sp. z o.o.
The aim of the agreement is to carry out research into the introduction of NGT into the plant breeding programmes of Polish companies. The development and implementation of NGT represent one of the key directions in the development of modern plant breeding, enabling the acceleration of breeding work aimed at increasing the resistance of varieties to the effects of climate change, improving the efficiency of agricultural production, reducing the use of plant protection products and strengthening the competitiveness of the domestic agri-food sector.
Further information on the Centre’s work, NGT and their application can be found on the Centre’s Facebook page.
Marek Marzec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. and Hieronim Marszałek – Chairman of the Board of Poznańskiej Hodowli Roślin Sp. z o.o. | Photo by Poznańska Hodowla Roślin
Participants at the meeting | Photo: Poznańska Hodowla Roślin
Marek Marzec, PhD, DSc | Photo: Poznańska Hodowla Roślin