This course explores how transcriptomic data analysis and gene transfer or editing technologies could be used to study plant metabolism, growth and development. Ultimately, the aim is to develop strategies to improve plant performance and produce crops with desirable novel traits.
Students will spend approximately half the course learning how to analyse transcriptomic datasets, interpret gene expression patterns, and link them to plant physiological and developmental processes. The remaining part of the course focuses on a plant biotechnology project, where students apply molecular and analytical approaches to address a research question related to plant function or improvement.
Through lectures, guided discussions, and independent work, students will engage with current literature, evaluate experimental approaches, and critically assess research findings. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills in scientific reasoning, data interpretation, and experimental design in plant biotechnology.
The course is well suited for students with a background in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology and/or plant molecular biology. Suggested papers for the University of Auckland as background include BIOSCI 326 (Plant Biotechnology for Crop and Health) and/or BIOSCI 351 Molecular Genetics, and/or BIOSCI 355 (Genomics and Genome Biology). Students taking this paper will be well prepared to pursue a career in private biotechnology companies, crown research institutes, primary industry sector or university research groups.