Understanding the genetic mechanism of Brassica napus resistance against cabbage stem flea beetle
Rachel Wells, Department of Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre

Wednesday April 15th; time 16.00; location Wageningen, Radix W01
Contact: Guusje Bonnema, Plant Breeding, WUR

Rachel’s research involves the identification of genetic resistance to Brassica pests and disease, with a strong focus on cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB). Her research group uses captive colonies, to study CFSB development and genetics, and controlled and field plant variety screens for both adult and larval CSFB damage in Brassica napus and related species, such as Sinapis alba. These experiments can be used to look at plant-pest interaction and ultimately determine the genes and mechanisms associated with pest resistance. This work is complemented by collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire on light leaf spot, focussing on mutation breeding and genome editing to target disease susceptibility.