Meet the People: Profiles
Profiles are arranged in alphabetical order (by first name).
People who have previously served as TLI Principal Investigators
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Andrew Paterson; Ph.D Plant Genome Mapping Laboratory University of Georgia 111 Riverbend Road, Rm 228, Athens, GA 30602, USA Tel: 1-706-583-0162 Fax 1-706-583-0160 Email paterson@uga.edu |
Educational background
Ph.D. Cornell University, 1988; Plant Genetics (minors: Genetics, Plant Physiology); M.S. Cornell University, 1985; Plant Breeding (minor: Agronomy) & B.S. Univ. of Delaware, 1982; Agriculture (Summa Cum Laude).
Role in the TLI project
Our roles are (1) to build a physical map of the A genome ancestor of cultivated groundnut, and (2) to undertake study of comparative evolution of the tropical legumes at the DNA level.
Scientific interests
My lab studies intrinsic genetic properties that make plants different from other organisms and from one another. Selected plants have become crops because of unique attributes that also make them valuable as botanical models. Crop genetics thus offers the opportunity to increase basic scientific knowledge and apply it to contemporary needs. Our priorities are to explore basic principles of genetics and evolution in the genomes of model organisms, and to accelerate assembly of the genomic frameworks that will permit such principles to be applied to the study and improvement of major crops.
Professional affiliation
Distinguished Research Professor, Univ. Georgia, Dept. Crop and Soil Sci; Dept. Plant Biology; Dept. Genetics.
Publications
Burow, M.D., C. E. Simpson, J. L. Starr, A. H. Paterson. 2001. Transmission genetics of chromatin from a synthetic amphiploid in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.): Broadening the gene pool of a monophyletic polyploid species. Genetics 159: 823-837.
B. Yüksel, A. H. Paterson. 2005. Construction and Characterization of a Peanut BAC Library. Theor. Appl. Genet. 111:630-639.
B. Yüksel, J. E. Bowers, J. Estill, L. Goff, C. Lemke, A. H. Paterson. 2005. Exploratory Integration of Peanut Genetic and Physical Maps, and Possible Contributions from Arabidopsis. Theor. Appl. Genet. 111:87-94.
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Asnake Fikre, PhD
Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute,
Debre Zeit Center, Ethiopia
PO Box 32; Fax : 02514338061; Tel: 02514338555,
Email: fikreasnake@yahoo.com or tataw71@gmail.com
Educational background
- BSc in Plant Science, Alemaya University, Ethiopia (Sep 1989 - Sep 1992)
- MSc in Agronomy/Breeding, Alemaya University, Ethiopia (Sep 1997 - July 1999)
- PhD in Applied biological Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium (Oct 2004 -Sep 2008)
Role in the TLI project
My specific role as project coordinator for Ethiopia is to both facilitate and participate in the breeding programme in Ethiopia, and involves germplasm/accessions exchange, field evaluation, knowledge transfer (ie, training facilitation for research staff and technical staff, particularly in molecular breeding and marker-assisted breeding procedures), and effective communication, which will, in turn, greatly enhance the working environment of project. I focus on the development of reputable breeding materials to be captured for the TLII programme, thereby facilitating the development of a well-equipped and effective technology-savvy generation within the stressed/marginal environments of Ethiopia. I also aim to encourage a positive team sprit, which I believe is a vital element towards the realisation of our project goals.
Scientific interests
On a more general, plant science level, I have a background in breeding genetics and agronomy; on a more specific level, I have also had much exposure to legumes, and to chickpea, lentil and grasspea in particular. As a breeder/agronomist I have a good understanding of what a genetic basis can do. Fortunately I was already a member the breeding team whilst we were releasing a number of superior merit varieties in the afore-mentioned crops. These technology packages reached to farmers and made dramatic economic benefits, serving as valuable professional experiences for me. I also feel that there is no limit to the exploitation of genetic resources that can be carried out in chickpea. Application of molecular techniques (marker development) as a breeding tool in the system would strategically enhance our improvement efforts on the crop within the target environment. I also appreciate that the publication/communication of scientific findings would greatly affect the efficiency of technology generation dissemination and application processes. I like to share my scientific interests with my team so that outputs may be greater enhanced.
Professional affiliation
- Member and vice president Crops Science Society of Ethiopia
- Member of Red Cross Ethiopia
- Member Ethiopia Agricultural Professional Association
Publications
Fikre A, Yami A, Kuo YH, Ahmed S, Gheysen G, Lambein F (2009). Effect of methionine supplement on physical responses and neurological symptoms in broiler chicks fed grass pea (Lathyrus sativus)-based starter ration. Food and Chemical Toxicology (2009). DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2009.08.020
Fikre A, Korbu L, Kuo YH, Lambein F (2008). The contents of the neuro-excitatory amino acid ß-ODAP (b-N-oxalyl-L-a,b-diaminopropionic acid), and other free and protein amino acids in the seeds of different genotypes of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.). Food Chemistry 110: 422-427.
Fikre A and Bejiga G (2003). Breeding lentil for wider adaptation. In: Food and forage legumes of Ethiopia; progress and prospects. Proceeding of the workshop on food and forage legumes 22-23 September 2003 (Ali K, Keneni G, Ahmed S, Malhautra R, Bainwal S, Makkouk K and Halila MH, eds). Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Asrat Asfaw Amele
Asrat Asfaw Amele
Awassa Agricultural Research Centre
P.O. Box 6, Awassa, Ethiopia
Tel. ++251 (091) 6827654
Mobile ++251 (046) 2202034/2204000
Office Fax: ++251 (046) 2204521
Email: asratasfaw@yahoo.co.uk or asrat.amele@wur.nl
Educational background
MSc degree in Plant Breeding major and Genetics minor, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hissar, India. BSc degree in Plant Sciences, former Alemaya Agricultural University (present Haramaya University), Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Currently pursuing PhD in Wageningen Univ., the Netherlands.
Role in the TLI project
Drought evaluations of reference collection and QTL population. QTL analysis of rooting depth in response to drought stress. Linkages with ECABREN network as leader of small red bean breeding program. Diversity assessment for Kenyan and Ethiopian connections (GCP fellowship support).
Scientific interests
Crop breeding for stress, seed system analysis, participatory research, diversity analysis with molecular markers / DNA finger printing, and drought phenotyping. Pro-poor crop variety development in marginal environments Bean seed system analysis and assessment of the effect of long term seed aid effects. Participatory research and farmer empowerment in seed and variety selection through participatory plant breeding, participatory variety selection and operational research. Plant breeding research on drought tolerance through rooting depth analysis. Scaling up participatory research and connecting crop production with market especially helping farmers with on-farm seed production for sustainable seed supply.
Publications
Asrat Asfaw and M.W. Blair. 2008. Population genetic structure of common bean (P. vulgaris L) landraces from Ethiopia and Kenya. Poster presentation at PAG XVI conference, San Diego, CA
Asrat Asfaw, A. Tenaye and E. Geta. 2008. Seed relief intervention and resilience of local seed system under stress: the case of Humbo woreda in Southern Ethiopia. Seed Info No. 34: 12-16
Asrat Asfaw, C. Almekinders, G. Degu and F. Alemayehu. 2007. Bean seed flow and exchange networks in Southern Ethiopia. Seed Info No. 33: 17-21
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Bonny R Ntare: Leader, Activity 1, Objective 1
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Bonny R. Ntare, PhD International Crops Research Institute for The Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) BP 320, Bamako, Mali Tel: +223 22 33 75 Fax: +223 20 22 86 83 E-Mail: b.ntare@cgiar.org |
Educational background
PhD in Plant breeding & Genetics (minors: agronomy, biometrical genetics, crop physiology, plant pathology), University of Ibadan, Nigeria, 1982
MS in Plant breeding (Minors: agronomy, plant pathology), Makerere University, Uganda, 1978
BS in Agriculture (Crop Science), Makerere University, Nigeria, 1975.
Role in TLI
Leader, Activity 1 of Objective 1 ie. to develop germplasm for genetic studies and modern breeding.
Scientific interests
Plant Genetic Resources Management and Enhancement with particular reference to food legumes (groundnut, cowpea and beans), farmer participatory approaches cropping and seed systems. Another important area of my research is the use of simple physiological models for yield to improve breeding efficiency.
Professional affiliation
Member of the editorial Board of African Crop Science Journal
Publications
Ntare BR, and Williams JH (1998). Heritability of components of a simple physiological model for yield in groundnut under semiarid rainfed conditions. Field Crops Research 58:25-33
Ntare BR, Williams JH, and Dougbedji F (2001). Evaluation of groundnut genotypes for heat tolerance under field conditions in a Sahelian environment using a simple physiological model for yield. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cambridge 136:81-88
Ntare BR, Olorunju PE., and Hildebrand GL (2002). Progress in breeding early maturing peanut cultivars with resistance to groundnut rosette disease in West Africa. Peanut Science 29: 17-23.
Carmen de Vicente: Project Director and Activity Leader, Objective 5, Activity 3
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Generation Challenge Programme A.Postal 6-641, 06600 México, D.F. MEXICO Tel: +52-55 5804-2004 ext. 1316 Fax: +52-55 5804-7558 E-mail: cdevicente@cgiar.org |
Educational background
BSc. Biological Sciences, Universidad de Navarra (Spain). MSc. Plant Breeding, Instituto Agronómico Mediterráneo de Zaragoza (IAMZ, CIHEAM). PhD. Plant Breeding, Cornell University (United States).
Role in the TLI project
Tropical Legumes I Project Manager and PI for Objective 6: Provide training and capacity building for Sub-Saharan African Scientists.
Scientific interests
The integration of molecular markers in conservation and use of genetic resources in general, the understanding of genetic diversity as a means for the identification of useful traits, innovative approaches for marker-assisted breeding.
Other interests
To bridge the technological gap between the advanced institutions and international centers and National Programmes in developing countries, both by offering opportunities to enhance capacity and by ensuring that research outputs reach the intended users
Professional affiliation
Generation Challenge Programme
References
Spooner D, R van Treuren, MC de Vicente. 2005. Molecular Markers for Genebank Management. IPGRI Technical Bulletin No. 10. International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome, Italy.
de Vicente, MC, and M.S. Andersson. (eds.) 2006. DNA Banks – Providing Novel Options for Genebanks? Topical Reviews in Agricultural Biodiversity. International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome, Italy. Available online: http://www.bioversityinternational.org/Publications/Pdf/1110.pdf
Castiñeiras L, F. A. Guzmán, T. Shagarodsky, R. Cristóbal, M. C. Duque, G. Gallego, M. C. de Vicente. 2007. AFLPs and morphological diversity of Phaseolus lunatus L. in Cuban home gardens: approaches to recovering the lost ex situ collection. Biodiversity and Conservation, 16: 2847-2865.
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David Bertioli
David J. Bertioli
Universidade Católica de Brasília, Campus II
Pós Graduação em Biotecnologia e Ciências Genomicas
SGAN Quadra 916, Modulo B, Av. W5 Norte
70790-160
Brasília-DF
Brazil
david@pos.ucb.br
Educational Background
Post-graduate scholarship and D.Phil. Oxford University, England, 1989-1992; BSc Hons Botany, Durham University, England,1989.
Professional Affiliations
Professor, Universidade Católica de Brasília, External lecturer and supervisor, University of Brasília. Consultant/visiting researcher for EMBRAPA.
Role in the TLI project
Within the Generation Challenge Program’s Tropical Legume 1 project, David Bertioli and colleagues are working on the construction of reference genetic maps for peanut, the comparison of the two component genomes of tetraploid cultivated peanut, and the linking of these genetic maps to a physical map for peanut. In addition we are working to integrate the peanut maps with the genetic maps of cowpea, common bean and chickpea. Finally we are placing candidate genes and QTLs for disease resistance on these maps to enrich their information content.
Scientific interests
Main research interests include peanut genetics, gene discovery, genomics, evolution and synteny of legume genomes, the characterization of agronomically desirable alleles from peanut’s wild relatives and their introgression into cultivated peanut
Publications
Hougaard BK, Madsen LH, Sandal N, Moretzsohn MC, Fredslund J, Schauser L, Nielsen AM, Rohde T, Sato S, Tabata S, Bertioli DJ Stougaard J. Legume anchor markers link syntenic regions between Phaseolus vulgaris, Lotus japonicus, Medicago truncatula and Arachis. Genetics, in-press.
Guimarães PM, Garsmeur O, Proite K, Leal-Bertioli SCM, Seijo G, Chaine C, Bertioli DJ, D`Hont A. BAC libraries construction from the ancestral diploid genomes of the allotetraploid cultivated peanut. (2008) BMC Plant Biology 8:14.
Seijo GJ, Lavia GI, Fernandez A, Krapovickas A, Ducasse D, Bertioli DJ, Moscone DEA. (2007) Genomic relationships between the cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea – Leguminosae) and its close relatives revealed by double GISH. American Journal of Botany. 94:1963-1971.
Douglas Cook: Principal Investigator, Objective 5
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COOK, Douglas R. (530) 754-6561 University of California drcook@ucdavis.edu One Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA |
Educational background
Postdoc. Plant Molecular Biology, Carnegie Institution, Johns Hopkins, 1992; Ph.D. Plant Pathology, Univ. Wisconsin, Madison, 1990; B.S. Biological Sciences, Santa Clara University, 1982.
Role in the TLI project
Principal Investigator of Objective 5. Within the Generation Challenge Programme’s Tropical Legume 1 project, the Cook laboratory is working to apply knowledge of legume genome structure to the practical goal of improving legume crops in the developing world. A second area of emphasis, involves the genetic, molecular and biochemical characterization of plant genes and proteins that regulate associations with symbiotic and pathogenic microorganisms. The focus of this work is the model legume, Medicago truncatula.
Scientific interests
The Cook laboratory is involved in two broad endeavors. The first involves structural and comparative genomics with the aim of understanding the evolution of legume (family Fabaceae) genomes. Projects in this area include (1) determining the genomic architecture and evolutionary history of NBS-LRR resistance gene homologs across the Fabaceae, and (2) and a comparative mapping strategy to define genome synteny across the Papilionoid subfamily.
Professional affiliation
Graduate Programmes in Plant Pathology, Genetics, Plant Biology, and Viticulture and Enology, UC Davis; Professor, International Graduate School in Bioinformatics and Genome Research, Universitat Bielefeld; Director, UC-Davis CA&ES Genomics Facility; Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation Non-Resident Fellow 2007-2012.
Publications
Zhu, H., Choi, H-K., Datta, S., and Cook, D.R. (2008) A comparison of Medicago truncatula and chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genomes. in review.
Cannon, SB, Sterck, L, Rombauts, S, Sato, S, Wang, X, Mudge, J, Vasdewani, J, Cheung, F, Gouzy, JP, Schiex, T, Spanngl, M, Schoof, H, Nicholson, C, Humphays, S, Mayer, K, Rogers, J, Quetier, F, Oldroyd, GE, Debelle, F, Cook, DR, Town, CD, Roe, BA, Tabata, S, Van de Peer, Y, Young, ND (2006) Legume genome evolution viewed through the Medicago truncatula and Lotus japonicus genomes. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 103:14959-14964.
Choi, H.-K., Mun, J.-H., Kim, D.-J., Zhu, H., Baek, J.-M., Mudge, J., Roe, B., Ellis, T.H.N., Doyle, J., Kiss, G.B., Young, N.D., and Cook, D.R. (2004) Estimating genome conservation between crop and model legume species. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 101:15289-15294.
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Monyo, Emmanuel S; Ph.D
Principal Scientist – Breeding
ICRISAT, Chitedze Research Station
P O Box 1096, Lilongwe – Malawi
Tel +265 1 707057/067/387
Fax + 265 1 707298
E.mail: e.monyo2@cgiar.org
Educational background
Ph.D. in Genetics and Plant Breeding, Purdue University, USA, 1988
MSc. in Genetics and Plant Breeding, Purdue University, USA, 1985
BSc.in Agronomy, Purdue University, USA, 1982
Diploma in Crop Production, Ukiriguru, Tanzania, 1979
Role in TL1 project
As Leader for Objective 1 Activity 5, I am involved in the introgression of biotic stress resistance/tolerance into farmer varieties by first working with farmers and African NARS to identify the best varieties requiring improved traits, and subsequently develop materials to take advantage of the new sources of resistance and the molecular marker tools identified in the other Activities.
Scientific interests
I am involved in the development of improved groundnut genotypes that will provide stable yields under smallholder farming conditions (low-input management, drought-prone environments, cash and labor shortages) using conventional and biotechnological tools. I conserve and disseminate groundnut germplasm,promote a regional approach to agricultural development, facilitate resource- and information-sharing among national programmes, and coordinate the design and implementation of collaborative research in groundnut improvement involving 22 national programmes in Eastern and Southern Africa.
Professional affiliation
Principal Scientist – Groundnut Breeding for ICRISAT; responsible for Eastern and Southern Africa
Publications
Mgonja MA, Chandra S, Obilana AB, Monyo ES, Kudita S, Chisi M, Saadan HM, and Chinhema E (2008). Stratification of sorghum hybrid testing sites in southern Africa based on grain yield. Field Crops Research 108 (3)193–197. (DOI:10.1016/j.fcr.2008.05.002). View article
Mgonja MA, Monyo ES, and Subhash C (2005). Enhancing Crop Breeding Programmes: The Case of Sorghum and Pearl Millet in Southern Africa. African Crop Science Journal, Vol 13 (3):201–208. Abstract
Monyo ES, Ipinge SA, Heinrich GM, and Chinhema E (2001). Participatory Breeding: Does It Make A Difference? Lessons From Namibian Pearl Millet Farmers. In: Assessing the impact of participatory research and gender analysis (Lilja N, Ashby JA and Sperling L, eds). Participatory Research and Gender Analysis Program, Cali, Colombia, pp. 198–207; International Center for Tropical Agriculture pp. 293. PDF
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Falalou Hamidou: Regional scientist (crop physiologist), Objective 1
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Falalou Hamidou, Ph.D Crop Physiology, ICRISAT Sahelien Centre, PO. Box. 12404, Niamey, Niger Tel. Off. (227) 20-72-25-29/26-26 E-mail : f.hamidou@cgiar.org, falalouh@yahoo.fr, hamidoufalalou@gmail.com |
Educational background
PhD in Plant physiology (2006), MSc (DEA) in Plant Biology and Ecology (2000); University of Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso).
Role in the TLI project
Working on Objective 1, my roles are (1) field and pots evaluation of the groundnut reference collection (up to 300 genotypes) under drought conditions from Niger, and (2) the supervision and coordination of TLI activities (objective1) in Mali and Senegal.
Scientific interests
Dr. Hamidou undertakes research on physiological, biochemical and agronomical traits related to drought tolerance of grains legumes. At ICRISAT, he is screening ICRISAT’s and Niger’s groundnut reference collection under drought conditions in multi-location trials and during different seasons (rainy, dry) to identify drought-related traits and new sources of drought resistance. After phenotyping and mapping, traits associated to drought tolerance can be introgressed into farmer-preferred varieties by new breeding methods to develop varieties that have ability to produce with limited available water.
Professional affiliation
- ICRISAT
- University Abdou Moumouni, Faculty of Sciences, Niamey, Niger.
Publications
Hamidou F, Zombré G and Braconnier S (2007). Physiological and biochemical responses of cowpea genotypes to water stress under glasshouse and field conditions. Journal of Agronomy and Crops Sciences 193, 229-237.
Hamidou F, Zombré G, Diouf O, Diop NN, Guinko S and Braconnier S (2007). Physiological, biochemical and agromorphological responses of five cowpea genotypes (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) to water deficit under glasshouse conditions. Biotechno.l, Agron., Soc. and Environ. 11(3), 225-234.
Hamidou F, Dicko MH, Zombré G, Traoré AS and Guinko S (2005). Réponse adaptative de deux variétés de niébé à un déficit hydrique. Cahiers Agricultur 14, 561-567.
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Ganga Rao, NVPR |
Educational background
PhD Genetics, 1997, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (India)
MSc (Ag) Genetics & Plant Breeding, 1993, Andhra Pradesh Agricultural Universit(India)
B.Sc (Agriculture), 1990, Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (India)
Role in the TLI Project
Co-Principal Investigator of activity 1 of objective 4, i.e. to develop germplasm for genetic studies and modern breeding
Scientific interests
Pigeonpea and chickpea breeding programmes to meet the needs of semi arid regions of Eastern and Southern Africa. Development of pigeonpea genotypes suitable for ESA with cream colored seeds, fusarium wilt tolerance and fast cookability. In chickpea, development of fusarium wilt and Ascochyta blight tolerance, drought tolerance, large seeded kabuli types, to fit well in cropping systems of Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Malawi.
Professional affiliation
- Fellow of Indian Society of Genetics and Plant breeding
- Life member six scientific societies
- Developed two wheat varieties and 3 genetic stocks
- Recipient of Srinivas Ramanujam Memorial award for outstanding research in plant genetics.
Publications
Rao NVPRG, Anjani K, Lavanya C, Raoof MA and Hegde DM (2007). Breeding for Botrytis grey mold (Botrytis ricini Godfrey) resistance in castor. In: ISOR 2007 Extended summaries: National seminar on changing global vegetable oils scenario: Issues and challenges before India. 29-31 January 2007, Indian Soc.of Oilseeds Res., Hyderabad, pp. 123-126
Rao NVPRG, Mahajan V and Shoran J (2006). Status and future prospects of hybrid development in bread wheat T.aestivum .L. In: Heterosis in crop plants, Kalloo G, Rai M, Singh M and Kumar S (Eds). Research co Publisher, pp 223 -250, New Delhi.
Babu KS, Rao NVPRG, Singh SK (2006). Screening of wheat genotypes for root aphid (Rhopalosiphum rufiabdominalis) resistance. Annual Wheat News Letter 52: 59-60
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Godwill .S. Makunde: NARS partner, Objective 3
Godwill .S. Makunde
Crop Breeding Institute (DR4D)
P.O.Box CY550
Causeway HARARE
Off. TELEPHONE: +263.04.704531/9
FAX: +263.04.731133
MOBILE: +263.0912.715513
E-MAIL: mgodwill@hotmail.com
Educational background
MSc degree Agronomy (Plant Breeding) (University of Zambia), 2007; BSc (Hon.) Agriculture with Major in Crop Science (Univ. of Zimbabwe), 2001.
Role in the TLI project
Research Officer (Common Bean Breeder) – Crop Breeding Institute (DR4D). SABRN collaborator and drought nursery evaluations. Selection of advanced lines in inter-genepool cross populations. Drought evaluation of reference collection (TL2 doctoral studies support).
Scientific interests
Co-ordination, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of projects on the development, testing, and seed multiplication of common bean and the training of communal farmers on community-based seed production of self pollinating crops. Development, evaluation, release and maintenance of improved common bean varieties adapted to Zimbabwean conditions and acceptable to farmers and industry. Develop and disseminate information to stakeholders on progress and activities within the common bean breeding program through written reports, published papers or presentations. Source and manage the preservation and characterization of common bean germplasm collections. Management of financial and human resources, and assets in the pulses section (common bean, Bambara groundnut and cowpea).
Publications
Makunde GC. Combining ability for drought tolerance in common bean lines. March 2007. Biotechnology, Breeding and Seed Systems for African Crops. Research and product development that reaches farmers. 3rd General meeting of the Rockefeller Foundation supported program. Maputo, Mozambique. Pp 126.
Makunde G, Beebe SE, Blair MW, Chirwa R, Lungu D (2007) Inheritance of drought tolerance traits in Andean x Andean and Andean x Mesoamerican F2 Populations. March 2007. Report of the Bean Improvement Cooperative. Volume 50, pp159-160.
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Hari C. Sharma: Co-Principal Investigator, Objective 1 International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) Patancheru 502324 Andhra Pradesh India Email: H.Sharma@cgiar.org |
Educational background
Ph.D. (1979) – Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India; M.Sc. (1976) - HP University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India; and B.Sc. (1974) – HP University, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India.
Role in the TLI project
In TL1 project, we are involved in phenotying the chickpea reference collection and the interspecific mapping population for resistance to pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera.
Scientific interests
Major areas of interest are host plant resistance to insects in cereals and legumes, including marker assisted selection for insect resistance, transgenics and their biosafety to non-target organisms, use of wild relatives as source of genes for insect resistance, and use of insect resistant cultivars in integrated pest management.
Professional affiliation
Principal Scientist – Entomology, ICRISAT, and Coordinator Project 6: Increasing crop production through open pollinated varieties of cereals and legumes in Asian SAT.
Publications
Sharma, H.C. (ed.). 2005. Heliothis/Helicoverpa Management: Emerging Trends and Strategies for Future Research. New Delhi, India: Oxford & IBH, and Science Publishers, USA. 469 pp.
Sharma, H.C., Pampapathy, G., Dhillon, M.K., and Ridsdill-Smith, T.J. 2005. Detached leaf assay to screen for host plant resistance to Helicoverpa armigera. Journal of Economic Entomology 98: 568-576.
Sharma, H.C., Pampapathy, G., Lanka, S.K., and Ridsdill-Smith, T.J. 2005. Potential for exploitation of wild relative of chickpea, Cicer reticulatum for imparting resistance to Helicoverpa armigera. Journal of Economic Entomology 98: 2246-2253.
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Idupulapati Rao: Co-Principal Investigator, Objective 3
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Idupulapati Rao, PhD |
Educational background
BSc from Andhra University, MSc from Bhopal University, PhD from Sri Venkateswara University). Postdoctoral training from 1981 to 1989 in USA at 2 universities (University of Illinois, University of California).
Role in the TLI project
Contributing to TLI project in defining the physiological traits and mechanisms of common bean adaptation to drought and in phenotyping of shoot and root traits of common bean
Scientific interests
Research interests have been to: (i) define the mechanisms of adaptation of tropical crop and forage species (including common bean, Brachiaria forage grasses, tropical forage legumes) to climatic and edaphic (abiotic) stress factors such as drought, waterlogging, low phosphorus, aluminum toxicity and soil acidity; (ii) develop rapid and reliable screening methods to identify abiotic stress resistant crop and forage germplasm; and (iii) assess how these stress adapted crop and forage components could be integrated into crop-livestock production systems to improve the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and protect the environment.
Professional affiliation
Active member of the American Society of Plant Biology, American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, Soil Science Society of America, International Union of Soil Sciences and New York Academy of Sciences.
Publications
The following three papers are highly relavant to the TL1 project:
Beebe, S., I. M. Rao, C. Cajiao and M. Grajales. 2008. Selection for drought resistance in common bean also improves yield in phosphorus limited and favorable environments. Crop Science 48: in press.
Ishitani, M., I. M. Rao, P. Wenzl, S. Beebe and J. Tohme. 2004. Integration of genomics approach with traditional breeding towards improving abiotic stress adaptation: drought and aluminum toxicity as case studies. Field Crops Res. 90: 35-45.
Rao, I. M. 2001. Role of physiology in improving crop adaptation to abiotic stresses in the tropics: The case of common bean and tropical forages. In: M. Pessarakli (ed). Handbook of Plant and Crop Physiology. Marcel Dekker, Inc., New York, USA pp. 583-613.
Issa Drabo: NARS Partner, Objective 2
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INERA CRREA- centre Saria 01 BP 10 Koudougou 01 BURKINA FASO Tel: (226) 50446509 Email: idrabo@yahoo.fr |
Educational background
Ph.D. Plant Breeding, University Laval Quebec CANADA, 1992; M. Phil. Plant breeding, University of Ibadan, NIGERIA, 1981; Diploma of Engineer Agronome, High school of Agriculture of Prague Czeschoslovakia, 1977.
Scientific interests
My research interests are genetic improvement, genetic diversity analysis, and identification of genes for drought tolerance and resistance to insect pests in cowpea. I conduct an applied cowpea breeding program developing improved cowpea varieties for Burkina Faso, I have been closely involved with the USAID-funded Bean/Cowpea Collaborative Research Support Program (now called “Dry Pulse Collaborative Research Support Program) and IITA PRONAF project that supports research and training activities in my country.
Role in the TLI project
I currently serve as host country Principal Investigator of Objective 2 (Improve cowpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa) of the Generation Challenge Programme project 'Improving tropical legume productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa' (termed the “Tropical Legumes 1”or TLI Project).
Publications
Muleba, N., M. Mwanke and I. Drabo. 1991a. Use of successional sowing in evaluating cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) adaptation to drought in the Sudan savannah zone. 1. Seed yield response. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cambridge, 116: 73-81.
Muleba, N., M. Mwanke and I. Drabo. 1991b. Use of successional sowing in evaluating cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) adaptation to drought in the Sudan savannah zone. 2. Response of reproductive traits. Journal of Agricultural Science, Cambridge, 116: 83-93.
Drabo, I., T. A. O. Ladehinde, R. Redden and B. Smithson. 1988. Inheritance of eye pattern and seed coat colour in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Plant breeding 100.119-128.
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Jeff Ehlers: Principal Investigator, Objective 2
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Jeffrey D. Ehlers 4125 Batchelor Hall Dept. of Botany and Plant Sciences University of California, Riverside 900 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92521-0124 USA
Tel: (951) 323-5918 |
Educational Background
Ph.D. Genetics, University of California, Davis, 1984; M.S. Vegetable Crops, University of California, Davis, 1980, B.S. Plant Science, University of California, Riverside, 1979.
Role in the TLI project
I currently serve as Principal Investigator of Objective 2 (Improve cowpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa) of the Generation Challenge Programme project “Improving tropical legume productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa” (termed the “Tropical Legumes 1”or TL-I Project). This project focuses on improving the productivity of legume crops of high importance to food security and poverty reduction efforts in sub-Saharan Africa through coupling of modern biotechnologies with applied breeding efforts.
Scientific interests
My research interests are genetic improvement, genetic diversity analysis, and identification of genes for drought tolerance and resistance to insect pests in cowpea. I conduct an applied cowpea breeding program developing improved cowpea varieties for the US, and improved germplasm for countries in Africa. Since 1992, I have been closely involved with the USAID-funded Bean/Cowpea Collaborative Research Support Programme (now called 'Dry Pulse Collaborative Research Support Program') that supports research and training activities in several African and Latin American countries. I maintain a cowpea germplasm collection of 5,000 accessions and provide seeds from this collection to scientists all over the world.
Professional affiliation
Crop Science Society of America, American Society of Agronomy
Publications
Hall AE, Singh BB, Ehlers JD (1997) Cowpea breeding. In Janick, J. (ed.), Plant Breeding Reviews, Vol. 15. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, pp 215-274.
Timko MP, Ehlers JD, Roberts PA (2006). Cowpea. In: Kole, C (ed) The Genomes: A Series on Genome Mapping, Molecular Breeding & Genomics, Science Publisher, Inc., Enfield, New Hampshire. In Press
Fang, J., C.C. T. Chao, P.A. Roberts, and J.D. Ehlers. 2007. Genetic diversity of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] in four West African and USA breeding programs as determined by AFLP analysis. Genet Resour Crop Evol. 54:1197-1209.
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Junichi Kashiwagi: Activity leader for Activity 4, Objective 4
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Junichi Kashiwagi (Negi) International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) Patancheru, Hyderabad 502 324, AP, India Email: J.Kashiwagi@cgiar.org Fax: +91-40-30713074/30713075 Tel: +91-40-30713327 |
Educational background
PhD (Crop Science) in 2000 from Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; MSc Ag (Agronomy) in 1995 and BSc Ag in 1992 from Kochi University, Kochi, Japan.
Role in the TLI Project
Activity leader for Activity 4 (Identify molecular markers and genes for drought tolerance) of Objective 4 (Improve chickpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia)
Scientific interests
Identifying and understanding the relevant traits and mechanisms for improving yield potential of chickpea under abiotic stress environments. Establishing reliable and rapid screening methods/systems for the relevant traits and mechanisms to make proper phenotyping and facilitate the trait-base breeding program.
Professional affiliation
Member of Crop Science Society of Japan, Japanese Society of Tropical Agriculture, Japanese Society for Root Research
Publications
Kashiwagi, J, Krishnamurthy L, Crouch JH and Serraj R. 2006. Variability of root length density and its contributions to seed yield in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under terminal drought stress. Field Crops Research 95:171-181.
Kashiwagi J, Krishnamurthy L, Gaur PM, Chandra S and Upadhyaya HD. 2008. Estimation of gene effects of the drought avoidance root characteristics in chickpea (C. arietinum L.). Field Crops Research 105:64-69.
Gaur PM, Krishnamurthy L and Kashiwagi J. 2008. Improving drought-avoidance root traits in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.): Current status of research at ICRISAT. Plant Production Science 11:3-11.
Matthew Blair: Principal Investigator, Objective 3
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International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) A. A. 6713, Cali, Colombia Tel: 57-2-4450-000; VIA USA 650-833-6625 Fax: 57-2-4450-073; VIA USA 650-833-6626 E-mail: m.blair@cgiar.org |
Educational background
Ph.D. 1998, Cornell University, USA; M. Sc., University of Puerto Rico; B. Sc. Cornell University. Postdoctoral training at Cornell University (Department of Plant Breeding and Institute for Genomic Diversity).
Role in the TLI project
Principal Investigator – Objective 3 for Common Beans. Research on inheritance of drought tolerance through diversity/association mapping, QTL analysis and marker development. Improvement of Andean genotypes through recurrent selection, pedigree selection and advanced backcross breeding.
Scientific interests
Research interests are in tagging traits that are important for common bean production in the tropics and evaluating and using the genetic diversity in common bean and related species for crop improvement. We have developed the first comprehensive set of microsatellite markers for common bean that permits readily usable, site-specific PCR markers for mapping and are developing EST and SNP based genetic markers for map saturation. We have analyzed national and international collections of germplasm for population structure and have begun association mapping with phenotypic data on these collections. We have also used marker technologies to evaluate quantitative trait loci for abiotic and biotic stress tolerance with an emphasis on drought stress and adaptation to low P or high Al soils. We also specialize in developing assays for marker-assisted selection of various important disease pathogens and insect pests of beans.
Professional affiliation
Active member of Bean Improvement Cooperative, Bean Genetics Committee, American Society of Crop Sciences, American Society of Botany.
Publications
The following three papers are highly relavant to the TL1 project
Blair MW, Díaz JM, Hidalgo R, Díaz LM, Duque MC (2007) Microsatellite characterization of Andean races of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Theor Appl Genet 116: 29-43
Blair MW, Fregene MA, Beebe SE, Ceballos H (2007) Marker Assisted Selection in Common Beans and Cassava. In E. Guimaraes (ed.) Marker-Assisted Selection. Current status and future perspectives in crops, livestock, forestry and fish. FAO. Chp 7: p.81 – 116.
Blair MW, Giraldo MC, Buendia HF, Tovar E, Duque MC, Beebe SE (2006) Microsatellite marker diversity in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Theor Appl Genet 113: 100–109.
Ndiaga Cissé: NARS Partner, Objective 2
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Business Address: ISRA / CNRA Bp 53 Bambey Senegal Tel. office (221) 973-60-50; Home (221) 973-64-51 Cellular:(221) 76 580 92 37 E-mail: ncisse@refer.sn |
Educational background
Ph.D. Genetics and Plant Breeding, 1995, Purdue University (USA); MSc. Agronomy, 1983, University of California Davis (USA); Agronomist engineer, 1979, IANB Bucharest, Romania.
Role in TLI project
I serve as the home country Principal Investigator of Objective 2 (Improve cowpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa) of the Generation Challenge Programme project 'Improving tropical legume productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa' (TLI). To achieve this objective, modern biotechnology and applied breeding methodologies are utilised. One of the tools to be developed is molecular markers associated with key constraints to cowpea production in Africa. Our role is then to phenotype cowpea for biotic (diseases, insects, striga) and abiotic (drought) stresses. Data generated with these efforts will allow identification of markers associated these traits for more efficient breeding activities.
Scientific interests
I conduct a cowpea breeding programme to develop varieties for the semi-arid zones of Senegal and West Africa. In these zones cowpea is produced in the more marginal lands with poor soil quality and prone to water stress. The varieties we develop are to be drought resistance; but also resist to important diseases (bacterial blight, mosaic viruses, macrophomina) and insects (thrips, aphids, bruchids). These varieties also need to have excellent grain qualities (size, colour and taste) which determine their acceptance by consumers.
Professional affiliation
Institut Senegalais De Recherches Agricoles (ISRA), Crop Science Society of America, American Society of Agronomy.
Publications
Cissé Ndiaga, Ndiaye Mbaye, Sene Assane. 2005. Registration of ‘Yacine ‘cowpea. Crop Science 45: 413-414.
Anthony E. Hall , Ndiaga Cisse, Samba Thiaw, Hassan O. A. Elawad, Jeffrey D. Ehlers, Abdelbagi M. Ismail, Richard L. Fery, Philip A. Roberts, Laurie W. Kitch, Larry L. Murdock, Ousmane Boukar, R. D. Phillips and K. H. McWatters. 2003. Development
of cowpea cultivars and germplasm by the bean/cowpea CRSP. Field Crop Research. (82) :103-134.
Cissé Ndiaga. 2001. Genotype x Row Spacing and Environment Interaction of Cowpea in Semiarid Zones. African Crop Science Journal, Vol.9.No2, pp. 359-367, 2001.
Omari K. Mponda (PhD)
Principal Agricultural Research Officer – Plant Breeding
Naliendele Agricultural Research Institute
P.O. Box 509 Mtwara, Tanzania
Tel 255 0784 471 813
Email: mpondaomari@hotmail.com
Educational background
PhD in Plant Breeding, University of East Anglia, UK.
Role in the TLI project
Tanzania NARS Collaborator Objective 1 (groundnut) activity 1, 4 and 5
Scientific interests
My research focuses plant breeding – developing new high yielding varieties of oilseeds (sesame and groundnuts) resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses. Also working with sorghum and grain legumes and seed systems research activities geared towards improving availability and accessibility of the poor to improved seeds.
Professional affiliation: Naliendele Agricultural Research Institute, Tanzania
Publications
O.K.K. Mponda, D.Gibbon, E. Arthur and S. Morse (1997). Involving farmers in the design of a low-input control programme for sesame flea beetles in Southern Tanzania. Experimental Agriculture 33:313-320.
E.M. Kafiriti and O.K.K. Mponda (2000). Rural Seed Fairs an alternative way of seed acquisition in Southern Tanzania. Tanzania Agricultural Research and Training Newsletter, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. Vol.XV Nos. 1-4
Mponda, O.K.K and E.M. Kafiriti (2002). Rural Seed Fairs in Southern Tanzania. IK Notes No. 43 April 2002. Knowledge and Learning Center African Region. World Bank, Washington D.C
Ousmane Boukar
IRAD B.P. 33
Maroua, Cameroon
Tel: (237) 9985-2796
Email: ouboukar@yahoo.fr ; oboukar@hotmail.com
Educational background
Ph.D. Plant Breeding and Genetics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, 2002; M.S. Plant Breeding and Genetics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, 1998; B.S. Agronomy, Centre Universitaire de Dschang, Dschang, 1988.
I currently serve at collaborating scientist of Objective 2 (Improve cowpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa) of the Generation Challenge Programme project “Improving tropical legume productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa” (termed the “Tropical Legumes 1”or TL-I Project). In sub-agreement of the project between UCR and IRAD, I am the principal investigator of the project in Cameroon.
Scientific interests
My research interest is genetic improvement of cowpea through the identification of genes for resistance to biotic and abiotic cowpea production constraints and the application of conventional and molecular breeding tools. Since 1992, I have been associated with the USAID-funded Bean/Cowpea Collaborative Research Support Program (CRSP) cowpea breeding efforts in Cameroon developing improved cowpea varieties and germplasm. I am also involved in the application of marker assisted selection for the development of striga resistant cowpea varieties adapted to West Africa through the funding of the Kirkhouse Trust. I am participating in the different efforts of developing and deploying Bt cowpea gene into well adapted varieties against the pod borer, maruca.
Professional affiliation
American Society of Agronomy
Publications
Timko, MP, Gowda, BS, Ouedraogo, J. and Boukar, O. 2007. Molecular markers for analysis of resistance to Striga gesnerioides in cowpea. In. Integrating New Technologies for Striga Control: Towards Ending the Witch-hunt. G. Ejeta and J. Gressell (Eds.) World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte Ltd, Singapore, pp. 115-128.
Boukar, O. and C. Fatokun. Strategies in cowpea breeding. Conference on “New Approaches to Plant Breeding of Orphan Crops in Africa” held from 19-21 September 2007 in Bern, Switzerland. In Abstracts book p.18.
Omoigui, L., Massawe, F., Kamara, A., Ishiyaku, M., Ekeleme, F., Boukar, O., Alabi, S. 2007. Evaluation of cowpea genotypes for their reactions to Striga gesnerioides in the dry savanna of northeast Nigeria. African Crop Science Proceedings, El-Minia, Egypt, 27-31 October 2007. Vol. 8, p. 273-278.
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Ousmane Ndoye: Involved in activities 1 and 4 of Objective 1 (groundnut) Director of the Centre d'Etude Régional pour l'Amélioration de l'Adaptation à la Sécheresse (CERAAS), Thiès, SENEGAL. E-mail ousndoye@refer.sn |
Educational background
PhD in Plant Breeding
Role in the TLI project
Involved in activities 1 and 4 of Objective 1 (groundnut)
Scientific interests
Breeding short duration groundnut varieties that can mature in the short time span that rainfall occurs in the sahel zone of Senegal is a main goal of my work. Very early maturing varieties, like the variety 78-936 which matures in 75 days, have been developed from crosses involving Senegalese groundnut varieties. Others (55-33, 73-9-11) mature in 80 days. Breeding for leaf spot resistant varieties is another area of interest to my program. The variety PC79-79 is an early leaf spot resistant variety that will be released in Senegal by the end of this year. Fresh seed dormancy in Spanish type groundnut is also very important because of late rain that can occur when peanut is mature. This can hamper the quality as well as the quantity of the harvest. Two dormant lines, involving 55-437 and Fleur 11 which are very popular varieties in Senegal, have been selected. With the help of the GCP, we are making introgression lines between amphidiploid varieties and our local varieties in order to select for drought tolerant and disease resistant varieties. Drought phenotyping is the main activity on which we are working in the TL1 project by determining the better performing varieties in transpiration efficiency (TE), some root traits and harvest index.
Professional affiliation
Centre d'Etude Régional pour l'Amélioration de l'Adaptation à la Sécheresse (CERAAS).
Publications
Ndoye, O. et P. Sankara. 2005. Synthèse des recherches sur les cercosporioses de l’arachide au Sénégal. Revue Sénégalaise des Recherches Agricoles et Agroalimentaires. Vol.1 n00 :17-24.
Prom, L.K., N. Cissé et O. Ndoye. 2007. Assessing the vulnerability of sorghum lines from the United States of America to long smut (Sporisorium ehrenbergii Vanky) disease. Crop Protection 26 (2007):1771-1776.
Ndoye, O. 2008. La politique des semences et l’état de la recherche arachidière. In L’arachide au Sénégal, Comment relancer la filière ? pp 31-37. Ouvrage publié par ActionAid Sénégal.
Philip A Roberts: Co-Principal Investigator, Objective 2
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Philip A. Roberts 14163 Boyce Hall Dept. of Nematology University of California, Riverside 900 University Ave. Riverside, CA 92521-0415 Tel: (951) 827-4442 Email: philip.roberts@ucr.edu |
Educational Background
Ph.D. Plant Biology, University of Birmingham, UK, 1978; B.Sc. Agricultural Zoology, University of Leeds, UK, 1979.
Role in the TL-I project
I serve as Co-Principal Investigator of Objective 2 (Improve cowpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa) of the Generation Challenge Programme project “Improving tropical legume productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa” (termed the “Tropical Legumes 1”or TL-I Project). Our cowpea project will develop the key genomic resources that are currently lacking in cowpea, identify molecular markers for drought tolerance and several biotic resistance traits, and implement molecular marker-assisted selection in four African countries, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Mozambique and Senegal.
Scientific interests
My research is on genetics of resistance and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses of vegetables and agronomic crops, and the deployment of resistance through plant breeding and integrated pest management strategies. In particular, resistance to nematodes and fungal pathogens of cowpea, cotton, carrots and tomato has been a major focus.
Professional affiliation
Society of Nematologists, European Society of Nematologists, American Phytopathological Society, American Association for the Advancement of Science
Publications
Roberts, P. A., W. C. Matthews, and J. D. Ehlers. 2005. Root-knot nematode resistant cowpea cover crops in tomato production systems. Agronomy Journal 97:1626-1635.
Das, S., D. A. DeMason, J. D. Ehlers, T. J. Close, and P. A. Roberts. 2008. Histological characterization of root-knot nematode resistance in cowpea and its relation to reactive oxygen species modulation. Journal of Experimental Botany 59:1305-1313.
Muchero, W., J. D. Ehlers, and P.A. Roberts. 2008. Seedling stage drought-induced phenotypes and drought-responsive genes in diverse cowpea genotypes. Crop Science 48:541-552.
Pooran M. Gaur: Co-Principal Investigator, Objective 1
.JPG) |
International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) Patancheru, Hyderabad 502 324, AP, India Email: P.Gaur@cgiar.org Fax: +91-40-30713074/30713075 Tel: +91-40-30713356; +91-9866080915 |
Educational background
PhD (Crop Science) in 1990 from University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada; MSc Ag (Plant Breeding and Genetics) in 1978 and BSc Ag in 1976 from Jawaharlal Nehru Agricultural University, Jabalpur, India.
Role in the TLI Project
Activity leader for Activity 5 (Enhance locally adapted germplasm with target traits) of Objective 4 (Improve chickpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia)
Scientific interests
Conventional and molecular breeding of chickpea (both desi and kabuli types) for enhanced yield potential, earliness, improved nutritional quality and seed traits, and enhanced resistance/tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Enhancing adoption of improved chickpea varieties through farmer-participatory on-farm trials and strengthening seed systems.
Professional affiliation
Life Member and Fellow of Indian Society of Genetics and Plant Breeding and Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development.
Member of Crop Science Society of Japan
Publications
Millan T, Clarke HJ, Siddique KHM, Buhariwalla HK, Gaur PM, Kumar J, Gil J, Kahl G, and Winter P. 2006. Chickpea molecular breeding: New tools and concepts. Euphytica 147:81-103.
Kashiwagi J, Krishnamurthy L, Gaur PM, Chandra S and Upadhyaya HD. 2008. Estimation of gene effects of the drought avoidance root characteristics in chickpea (C. arietinum L.). Field Crops Research 105:64-69.
Gaur PM, Krishnamurthy L and Kashiwagi J. 2008. Improving drought-avoidance root traits in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.): Current status of research at ICRISAT. Plant Production Science 11:3-11.
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Rajeev Varshney: Principal Investigator, Objective 4
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Rajeev Varshney International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)/Generation Challenge Programme (GCP) Tel: 0091-40 –30713305, 0091-40-9949994070; Fax: 0091-40-30713074/3075 e-mail: r.k.varshney@cgiar.org |
Educational background
Research Scientist/ Post-Doc, Structural, comparative and functional genomics of cereals, IPK-Gatersleben, Germany, 2001-2005; Ph.D. Agricultural Botany (Molecular Biology), CCS University, Meerut, India, 2001; M.Sc. (Gold Medal), Botany (Genetics and Molecular Biology), AMU Aligarh, India, 1995, B.Sc. (Honours) Botany, AMU Aligarh, India, 1993
Role in TLI project
Principal Investigator of Objective 4, and Leader for Activity 2 in TLI project. Responsible for developing genomic resources i.e. SSR and DArT markers, genetic maps. Collaborating with: (i) Activity 3 (Obj 4) to identify QTLs for insect resistance, (ii) Activity 4 (Obj 4) to identify root trait QTLs, and (iii) Activity 1 of Objective 5, to map COS markers onto chickpea genetic maps.
Scientific interests
I have interest in developing the genomic tools and their applications for crop improvement especially for improving tolerance to abiotic stress. Current activities of the group include development of genomic resources like molecular markers (SSRs and SNPs), ESTs, candidate genes, genetic and comparative maps and their utility for assessing and harnessing the natural diversity, trait mapping and molecular breeding aimed at crop improvement in legume crops especially chickpea and pigeonpea.
Professional affiliation
Subject Editor, Plant Breeding, Associate Editor, Euphytica, Member of Editorial Board, Plant Genetic Resources, Associate for National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, India, Member, Executive Council of Association for DNA Fingerprinting and Other DNA Technologies (ADNAT), India, Member, International Peanut Genomics Research Coordination Committee, USA, Coordinator, “Recombinational Analysis” of International Triticeae Mapping Initiative (ITMI), Organizer, “International ‘Triticeae EST-SSR Coordination” and Member on FAO Steering Committee to organise the conference on “Agricultural Biotechnology in Developing World.”
Publications
Published more than 80 research papers/articles in international journals of repute that have been cited >1200 times. Three selected relevant publications are listed below.
Varshney, R. K, Graner, A., Sorrells, M. E. 2005 Genomics-assisted breeding for crop improvement. Trends in Plant Science 10: 621-630 (+corresponding author)
Varshney, R.K., Hoisington, D.A., Upadhyaya, H.D., Gaur, P.M., Nigam, S.N., Saxena, K., Vadez, V., Sethy, N.K., Bhatia S., Aruna, R., Gowda, M.V.C., and Singh, N.K. 2007. Molecular genetics and breeding of grain legume crops for the semi-arid tropics. In: Genomics Assisted Crop Improvement Vol II: Genomics Applications in Crops, (Varshney, R.K. and Tuberosa, R., Eds). Springer, The Netherlands, pp 207-242
Singh, R., Sharma, P., Varshney, R.K., Sharma, S.K., and Singh, N.K. (2008) Chickpea improvement: role of wild species and genetic markers. Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Reviews 25: 267-314
«back to top»Robert Kileo: NARS Partner, Objective 4
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Robert Kileo Ukiriguru Agricultural Research Institute Lake Zone – Tanzania P O Box 1433 Mwanza, Tanzania Tel. Office: +255 732 980764 Mobile: +255 754 382403 E mail: kileorobert@yahoo.com |
Educational background
M.Sc (Crop Production) Wageningen University of Agriculture, The Netherlands (1992); B.Sc (Crop Science – Agronomy) Sokoine University of Tanzania 1987; Agriculture Research Management, National Academy of Agricultural Research, Hyderabad, India (2000); Farming Systems Research Approaches, Harare University, Zimbabwe (2003).
Role in TLI Project
NARS (Partner, Tanzania) for Objective 4 (Improve chickpea productivity for marginal areas of Sub-Sahara Africa). I am responsible with field phenotypic screening and assessment of elite chickpea materials (populations) resistant to biotic (mainly Helionthis armigera) and abiotic (mainly drought) stresses in the chickpea growing areas of Lake Zone, Tanzania and improvement of locally available chickpea genotype. Other activity involves on-farm participatory farmers’ variety evaluation of elite chickpeas materials for the farmer-preferred trails. At the Institute level, I am responsible in coordinating all research activities in the Lake Zone of Tanzania.
Scientific interest
Mainly interested in farmers-participatory-variety selection for the newly introduced/bred crop varieties against the existing ones. My main role being facilitation of farmers’ assessment on both qualitative and quantitative farmers’ preferred traits. I am also involved in capacity building (through training, field days and demonstration plots) of farmers and community extension staff on crop husbandry, marketing and community seed production systems.
Professional affiliation
National Farming Systems Approach training team for NARS scientists (Tanzania); Crop Science Society.
Satoru Muranaka: Plant Physiologist, Objective 2
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Satoru Muranaka; PhD
Tel: +234-(0)806999675
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Educational background
PhD in Plant Physiology, Tsukuba University, Japan, 2003
MSc in Plant Physiology, Tsukuba University, Japan, 2000
BSc in Agriculture, Tsukuba University, Japan, 1998
Role in the TLI project
1) To screen large-scale germplasm for drought resistance/tolerance; 2) to provide technical support for phenotyping ofdrought resistance/tolerance and analysis of G x E in interactions on drought resistance/tolerance.
Scientific interests
Via the lab and field studies on drought and Striga resistance/tolerance in cowpea, we expect to identify various useful germplasm with/without drought and Striga resistance/tolerance for physiological and genetic analysis and breeding programmes. These selected materials are now being used for detailed physiological study to identify physiological key factors of drought and Striga resistance/tolerance. Our priorities are to enhance the efficiency of genetic study and breeding activity to develop suitable drought and Striga-resistant/tolerant cowpea varieties through the clear understanding of physiological mechanisms and the use of key physiological criteria for selection of parents and progenies.
Professional affiliation
Crop physiologist, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture – Nigeria, Kano station
Publications
Agbicodo E, Fatokun C, Muranaka S, van der Linden CG and Visser R (2008). Breeding drought tolerant cowpea: constraints, accomplishments, and future prospects, Euphytica 2336: 21 – 28.
Muranaka S., Shimizu K and Kato M (2002). Ionic and osmotic effects of salinity on single-leaf photosynthesis in two wheat cultivars with different drought tolerance. Photosynthetica 40: 201-207.
Muranaka S, Shimizu K, Kato M (2002). A salt-tolerant cultivar of wheat maintains photosynthetic activity by suppressing sodium uptake. Photosynthetica 40: 509-515.
Steve Beebe: Co-Principal Investigator, Objective 3
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Steve Beebe, PhD
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Educational background
Ph.D. in Plant Breeding-Plant Genetics (1978) from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
Role in the TLI project
Creation of populations for crop improvement and genetic analysis, and the field phenotyping of populations of recombinant inbred lines.
Scientific interests
Research has covered areas of genetic diversity and crop evolution; gene tagging and marker assisted selection; breeding for resistance to pests and diseases; and more recently, tolerance to abiotic stress, especially drought, aluminum toxicity and low soil phosphorus availability. He also participates in the Tropical Legumes II project, and coordinates the common bean component in that project.
Professional affiliation
Active member of Bean Improvement Cooperative.
Publications
The following three papers are highly relevant to the TL1 project
Beebe, S.E., I.M. Rao, C. Cajiao, and M. Grajales. 2008. Selection for drought resistance in common bean also improves yield in phosphorus limited and favorable environments. Crop Sci. (in press)
Beebe, S., M. Rojas-Pierce, X. Yan, M.W. Blair, F. Pedraza, F. Muñoz, J. Tohme, and J.P. Lynch. 2006. Quantitative trait loci for root architecture traits correlated with phosphorus acquisition in common bean. Crop Sci. 46:413-423.
Blair, M.W., M.A. Fregene, S.E. Beebe, and H. Ceballos. 2007. Marker-assisted selection in common beans and cassava. In, Marker-Assisted Selection: Current status and future perspectives in crops, livestock, forestry and fish. FAO, Rome.
«back to top»Timothy J Close: Co-Principal Investigator, Objective 2
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Timothy J. Close Dept. of Botany and Plant Sciences University of California Riverside, CA 92521-0124 Tel: (951) 827-3318 Email: timothy.close@ucr.edu |
Educational background
Ph.D. Genetics, University of California, Davis, 1982; M.Sc., Genetics, University of California, Davis, 1979; B.A. Biology, University of California, San Diego, 1976.
Role in the TLI project
Co-Principal Investigator of Objective 2 (Improve cowpea productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa) of the Generation Challenge Programme's project 'Improving tropical legume productivity for marginal environments in sub-Saharan Africa' (termed the 'Tropical Legumes 1' or 'TLI Project'). This project focuses on improving the productivity of legume crops of high importance to food security and poverty reduction efforts in sub-Saharan Africa through coupling of modern genetic marker technology with applied breeding efforts. My role is to lead the development of a high-density and high-throughput single nucleotide polymorphism marker system to populate the cowpea genetic linkage map with more than 1000 SNP markers, and to link the genetic and physical maps.
Scientific interests
My research is on the genetics of environmental stress tolerance in crop plants. I have been active in genome resource development for wheat, barley, citrus and now cowpea. This has included cDNA libraries, ESTs and sequence assemblies, design of Affymetrix microarrays for barley and citrus, design of SNP markers and implementation of a 3072-SNP marker system for barley using the Illumina GoldenGate assay, coupling the physical and SNP-based genetic map of barley, and identification of SFP markers for rice, wheat, citrus, barley and cowpea.
Professional affiliation
American Society of Plant Biologists, Crop Science Society of America, National Barley Improvement Committee
Ismail AM, AE Hall, Close TJ. 1999. Allelic variation of a dehydrin gene co-segregates with chilling tolerance during seedling emergence. Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. 96: 13566-13570.
Close TJ, Wanamaker S, Caldo RA, Turner SM, Ashlock DA, Dickerson JA, Wing RA, Muehlbauer GJ, Kleinhofs A, Wise RP. 2004. A new resource for cereal genomics: 22k barley chip comes of age. Plant Physiology 134:960-968.
Das S, Bhat PR, Sudhakar C, Ehlers JD, Wanamaker S, Roberts PA, Cui X and Close TJ. 2008. Detection and validation of single feature polymorphisms in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) using a soybean genome array. BMC Genomics 9:107.
Tobias Kapewa
Chief Agricultural Research Scientist,
Dept. of Agricultural Research Services,
Chitedze Research Station,
P.O.Box 158, Lilonwe,
Malawi.
Tel : (265) 1 707076 (o)
(265) 5 355577(cell)
email: groundnut@malawi.net
tkapewa58@yahoo.com
Educational background: MSc. in Tropical and Subtropical Horticulture with a major in plant breeding– University of London, UK.
Role in the TLI project: Activity 4 leader of Objective 1 (groundnut) –NARS-Malawi.
Scientific interests: My research focuses on development of adapted, high yielding, disease resistant and drought tolerant groundnut cultivars that meet the demands of the grower, processor and consumer. Under TLI project, we will emphasize our focus on transpiration efficiency (TE, i.e. the amount of biomass produced per unit of water transpired) and our goal is to obtain QTL for TE that would then be introgressed into locally adapted groundnut germplasm. Challenges related to TE are: (i) explore the genetic diversity for this trait towards the development of suitable mapping populations; (ii) understand the interaction between TE and the environmental conditions.
Professional affiliation:
Ministry of Agriculture
Publications:
T. Kapewa, et. al. 2002. Performance of long-duration & short-duration rosette-resistant groundnut genotypes in Malawi.-Malawi Journal of Agric. Sciences. Volume 1. Number 1. Pages 1-8.
C.M. Deom and T. Kapewa, 2007, Registration of ICGV-SM 99568-a rosette resistant line. Journal of Crop Science.
Vincent Vadez: Principal Investigator, Objective 1
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International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Patancheru 502324 Andhra Pradesh, India Tel (91) 40 30 71 34 63 Email v.vadez@cgiar.org |
Educational background
PhD in Plant Physiology – Agronomy Engineer (France)
Role in the TLI project
Principal Investigator of Objective 1 as of June 2008. Activity 4 leader of Objective 1 (groundnut) and have a prominent role in Activity 1 of Objective 1. I’m also closely involved in Activity 1 & 4 of Objective 4 (chickpea).
Scientific interests
My research focuses on plant response to water deficit in mandated crops of ICRISAT, and mostly on groundnut, chickpea, pearl millet and sorghum. My research at ICRISAT focus on traits that are closely related to the yield architecture and that can have a benefit under water limited environments. We focus on transpiration efficiency (TE, i.e. the amount of biomass produced per unit of water transpired) and our goal is to obtain QTL for TE that would then be introgressed into locally adapted germplasm. Challenges related to TE are: (i) explore the genetic diversity for this trait towards the development of suitable mapping populations; (ii) understand the interaction between TE and the environmental conditions; (iii) Assess the potential of introgressing such traits from wild Arachis relative. We focus on water uptake by roots, where our goal is also to obtain QTL for an increased and better patterned water uptake towards yield increase under water limited environments. Our challenges are: (i) to understand the relation between “physical” root traits (depth, length density, volume, etc…) and functional root traits (water uptake, pattern of uptake over time under stress), and their relation to yield; (ii) explore the diversity for these traits; (iii) map QTL for such traits.
Professional affiliation
ICRISAT
Publications
Vadez, V., L. Krishnamurthy, J.W. Kashiwag, J. Kholova, J.M. Devi, K.K. Sharma, P. Bhatnagar-Mathur, D.A. Hoisington, C.T. Hash, F.R. Bidinger and J.D.H. Keatinge. 2007. Exploiting the functionality of root systems for dry, saline, and nutrient deficient environments in a changing climate. Journal of SAT Agricultural Research 4 (Special Symposium Edition) http://www.icrisat.org/journal/specialproject.htm
Krishnamurthy, L., V. Vadez, M.J. Devi, R. Serraj, S.N. Nigam, M.S. Sheshshayee, S. Chandra, and R. Aruna. 2007. Variation in transpiration efficiency and its related traits in a groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) mapping population. Field Crops Research 103:189-197.
Sinclair, T.R. and V. Vadez. 2002. Physiological traits for crop yield improvement in low N and P environment. Plant and Soil 245(1):1-15.
People who have previously served as TLI Principal Investigators
- Doug Cook, University of California–Davis, Objective 5, September 2007-April 2010
- Dave Hoisington, ICRISAT: Principal Investigator, Objectives 1 & 4
September 2007-May 2008