Expanding the range of barley gene editing tools

This project focuses on gene editing (GE), a new and precise way to improve crops without adding foreign DNA. Unlike traditional breeding or genetic modification (GM) , GE makes small, targeted changes to a plant's existing genes without increasing gene number.

Within the scope of this project, we aim to work on developing and refining gene-editing techniques, with the flexibility to explore various gene editing approaches. The research will focus on barley, a major crop for used as food and beverage worldwide. The goal will be to identify important genes, test different ways to edit them, and improve how GE tools are delivered to barley cells.

This toolbox will help to develop resilient, higher-yielding crops that may require fewer resources, helping farmers adapt to climate change.