Optimising a universal plant transformation system for orphan crops

Optimising a novel carbon nanodot based plant transformation system to expand and improve upon pre-existing plant transformation methods (Agrobacterium, Biolistics). The aims of the project are to engineer a system capable of universal usage across plant species, transformation of orphan crops (i.e Sorghum), increased speed of obtaining successful transformants, increased efficiency of transformation, and increased transformation possibilities. A particular focus will be given to orphan crops such as Sorghum due to the current inability to quickly and efficiently produce successful transformants, which is problematic given Sorghum's presence as a vital staple crop in African nations.