Dr Mobashwer Alam is a Plant Geneticist and Breeder with twenty years' research and teaching experience in public and private industries, and in the universities in Australia and Bangladesh. He has been working at the Centre for Horticultural Science, QAAFI, UQ and is based at Maroochy Research Station, Nambour, QLD 4560. Over the last twenty years, Dr Alam received experiences in multi-disciplinary research, including Plant Breeding, Quantitative Genetics, Genomics, Plant physiology, and Crop modelling. Before joining at QAAFI, UQ, Dr Alam had been working as a Senior Plant Breeder (Grain SOrghum) at Nuseed Pty Ltd. He achieved his PhD in Plant Molecular Genetics in 2013 through the School of Agriculture and Food Sciences of the University of Queensland. During his study at UQ, he worked with Crop Physiology and Modelling group at St. Lucia, and Sorghum Breeding group of Hermitage Research Station, Warwick. Before coming in Australia as a PhD student, Dr Alam had been working as a Lecturer and Assistant Professor of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding at Patuakhali Science and Technology University in Bangladesh. Throughout his academic and research career, he worked on multiple crops including Macadamia, Stone Fruits, Sorghum, Sugarcane, Lablab bean, Tomato, Okra, and Ash gourd. He is interested in developing rapid breeding tools and utilizing plant Genomics in tree crops improvement.
Journal Article: Precision genome editing in plants using gene targeting and prime editing: existing and emerging strategies
Hassan, Md Mahmudul, Yuan, Guoliang, Liu, Yang, Alam, Mobashwer, Eckert, Carrie A., Tuskan, Gerald A., Golz, John F. and Yang, Xiaohan (2022). Precision genome editing in plants using gene targeting and prime editing: existing and emerging strategies. Biotechnology Journal, 17 (10) 2100673, 1-18. doi: 10.1002/biot.202100673
Journal Article: Genome-wide association study for abscission failure of fruit pericarps (stick-tights) in wild macadamia germplasm
Nunn, Jasmine, De Faveri, Joanne De, O’Connor, Katie, Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Akinsanmi, Olufemi and Topp, Bruce (2022). Genome-wide association study for abscission failure of fruit pericarps (stick-tights) in wild macadamia germplasm. Agronomy, 12 (8) 1913, 1913. doi: 10.3390/agronomy12081913
Journal Article: Fatty acid diversity and interrelationships in macadamia nuts
Hu, Wei, Fitzgerald, Melissa, Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobashwer and O'Hare, Tim J. (2022). Fatty acid diversity and interrelationships in macadamia nuts. LWT, 154 112839, 112839. doi: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.112839
Journal Article: Genomic selection and genetic gain for nut yield in an Australian macadamia breeding population
O’Connor, Katie M., Hayes, Ben J., Hardner, Craig M., Alam, Mobashwer, Henry, Robert J. and Topp, Bruce L. (2021). Genomic selection and genetic gain for nut yield in an Australian macadamia breeding population. BMC Genomics, 22 (1) 370, 1-12. doi: 10.1186/s12864-021-07694-z
Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Mobashwer Alam, Saman Seneweera, Sujay Rakshit and Robert Henry eds. (2021). Molecular breeding in wheat, maize and sorghum: strategies for improving abiotic stress tolerance and yield. Wallingford, United Kingdom: CABI. doi: 10.1079/9781789245431.0000
Journal Article: Ultra-high-throughput DArTseq-based silicoDArT and SNP markers for genomic studies in macadamia
Alam, Mobashwer, Neal, Jodi, O'Connor, Katie, Kilian, Andrzej and Topp, Bruce (2018). Ultra-high-throughput DArTseq-based silicoDArT and SNP markers for genomic studies in macadamia. PLoS One, 13 (8) e0203465, e0203465. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203465
Journal Article: Estimating genetic parameters of architectural and reproductive traits in young macadamia cultivars
Toft, Benjamin D., Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2018). Estimating genetic parameters of architectural and reproductive traits in young macadamia cultivars. Tree Genetics and Genomes, 14 (4) 50. doi: 10.1007/s11295-018-1265-x
Conference Publication: ‘MPM1’: a macadamia hybrid showing breakdown of biological rhythm in morphogenesis
Alam, M.M., Neal, J., Howell, E., Russell, D. and Topp, B.L. (2018). ‘MPM1’: a macadamia hybrid showing breakdown of biological rhythm in morphogenesis. International Symposia on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture (ISTTH), Cairns, QLD, Australia, 20-25 November, 2016. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS). doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.78
Conference Publication: Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of 'HAES741' and 'HAES660' macadamia cultivars
Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Nock, Catherine, O'Connor, Katie and Topp, Bruce (2017). Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of 'HAES741' and 'HAES660' macadamia cultivars. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Conference Publication: Indirect prediction of macadamia yield through a genome wide association study of component traits
O'Connor, Katie, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Mobashwer Alam and Topp, Bruce (2017). Indirect prediction of macadamia yield through a genome wide association study of component traits. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Journal Article: Predicting tillering of diverse sorghum germplasm across environments
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer, van Oosterom, Erik J., Cruickshank, Alan W., Jordan, David R. and Hammer, Graeme L. (2017). Predicting tillering of diverse sorghum germplasm across environments. Crop Science, 57 (1), 1-10. doi: 10.2135/cropsci2016.04.0262
Journal Article: QTL analysis in multiple sorghum populations facilitates the dissection of the genetic and physiological control of tillering
Alam, M. M., Mace, E. S., van Oosterom, E. J., Cruickshank, A., Hunt, C. H., Hammer G.L. and Jordan, D. R. (2014). QTL analysis in multiple sorghum populations facilitates the dissection of the genetic and physiological control of tillering. Theoretical and Applied Genetics, 127 (10), 2253-2266. doi: 10.1007/s00122-014-2377-9
Journal Article: A physiological framework to explain genetic and environmental regulation of tillering in sorghum
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer, Hammer, Graeme L., Van Oosterom, Erik J., Cruickshank, Alan W., Hunt, Colleen H. and Jordan, David R. (2014). A physiological framework to explain genetic and environmental regulation of tillering in sorghum. New Phytologist, 203 (1), 155-167. doi: 10.1111/nph.12767
Other Outputs: Genetic mapping and modelling of tillering in sorghum
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer (2013). Genetic mapping and modelling of tillering in sorghum. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland.
National Passionfruit Breeding and Evaluation Program
(2023–2028) Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited
Integrating technologies for rapid domestication in macadmaia
(2023–2026) Advance Queensland Industry Research Fellowships
(2022–2023) Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited
Genetic basis of the variability in nut traits and their association with nut borer resistance in macadamia
Master Philosophy
Exploring the genetic and physiological basis of scion vigour in macadamia
Doctor Philosophy
Genetic Factors Affecting the Accumulation of Palmitoleic Acid and other Beneficial Fatty Acids in Macadamia Nut Kernels.
Doctor Philosophy
Genetics of stomatal size and density in Macadamia
Macadamia is an Australian native crop that is economically significant due to the numerous health benefits of its extremely valuable nut. To develop climate-resistant crops, the Australian macadamia breeding programme focuses on identifying simple and heritable features associated with low water loss and high photosynthesis. Stomatal pores in a leaf's epidermis allow for water loss via transpiration and CO2 absorption for photosynthesis. Stomata size and density are important factors in plant water efficiency and carbon capture. It may be possible to maximise CO2 uptake and water loss by adjusting the size and density of stomata. Many genes and signalling pathways are involved in the complex regulation of stomatal development. The genetic basis of macadamia stomatal size and density remains unknown. This study will investigate the phenotypic variation of the macadamia stomatal apparatus in a wide range of breeding progeny, cultivars, and wild germplasm. The trait's heritability will be determined, and a genome-wide association study will be conducted to identify potential genes associated with the trait. Discovering the genetic basis of the traits in macadamia will be useful for future breeding decisions and planning.
This project is available for Summer scholarship/Honours/Masters coursework/MPhil students, can also be extended to a PhD project.
The student will develop skills in phenotyping, genetics, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
Location: Maroochy Research Facility, 47 Mayers Rd, Nambour. Student needs to travel to Nambour, Tairo and Bundaberg for data/sample collection)
Required background: Genetics, Plant Breeding, Genomics, Botany, Biology, Plant Physiology
Molecular investigation to determine species composition and extent of genetic base of Australian elite selections of Macadamia
Macadamia is an Australian native crop and is highly valued for its kernel. Using the available cultivars as parents, Australian national macadamia breeding program generated >15,000 breeding progeny and selected 53 elites through first and generation of progeny evaluation. Most of the parents of these selections belong to Macadamia integrifolia or M. tetraphylla or their hybrids. Although pedigree information of the 53 selections is available, species identity is still unexplored.
This project is aimed to investigate the genetic patterns in 53 elite selections and will identify species composition using high-throughput markers. Genetic information from wild species will be used in species composition analysis. Genetic diversity of the selected accessions will be compared with the diversity within cultivated and wild gene pools.
This project is available for summer or winter scholarship/Masters coursework/Hounours students.
Location: Maroochy Research Facility, 47 Mayers Rd, Nambour.
Required background: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology / Genetics / Agriculture/ Botany/ Plant Breeding /Environmental Science/ Ecology
Macadamia root stock genetics on the variability in scion architecture and branching.
The management of excessive vigour through pruning and hedging is a major expense in commercial macadamia orchards. Recently, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (QDAF) and the University of Queensland (UQ) took initiatives to control scion vigour by using rootstocks through two consecutive Horticulture Innovation (HI) Australia funded projects: “Transforming subtropical/tropical tree crop productivity” (AI 13004) and National Tree Crop Intensification in Horticulture Program (AS18000). A diverse range of germplasm of macadamia rootstocks were planted at Nambour with a single scion cultivar. Investigating the effect of rootstocks on the variability in the architectural traits and branching pattern of the scion will be useful to select rootstocks for vigour management. In this project, the scholar will collaborate with a research higher degree student and measure growth traits and branching pattern of a common scion. A branching index equation will be developed to characterise trees for the variability in branching. Statistical analysis will be conducted to find out the effect of rootstock genotypes on scion vigour.
This project is available for Summer scholarship/Honour/Masters course work/MPhil and can be extended to a PhD project.
Required background: Genetics / Agriculture/ Botany/ Plant Breeding /Environmental Science/ Ecology
Hassan, Md Mahmudul, Yuan, Guoliang, Liu, Yang, Alam, Mobashwer, Eckert, Carrie A., Tuskan, Gerald A., Golz, John F. and Yang, Xiaohan (2022). Precision genome editing in plants using gene targeting and prime editing: existing and emerging strategies. Biotechnology Journal, 17 (10) 2100673, 1-18. doi: 10.1002/biot.202100673
Nunn, Jasmine, De Faveri, Joanne De, O’Connor, Katie, Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Akinsanmi, Olufemi and Topp, Bruce (2022). Genome-wide association study for abscission failure of fruit pericarps (stick-tights) in wild macadamia germplasm. Agronomy, 12 (8) 1913, 1913. doi: 10.3390/agronomy12081913
Fatty acid diversity and interrelationships in macadamia nuts
Hu, Wei, Fitzgerald, Melissa, Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobashwer and O'Hare, Tim J. (2022). Fatty acid diversity and interrelationships in macadamia nuts. LWT, 154 112839, 112839. doi: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.112839
Genomic selection and genetic gain for nut yield in an Australian macadamia breeding population
O’Connor, Katie M., Hayes, Ben J., Hardner, Craig M., Alam, Mobashwer, Henry, Robert J. and Topp, Bruce L. (2021). Genomic selection and genetic gain for nut yield in an Australian macadamia breeding population. BMC Genomics, 22 (1) 370, 1-12. doi: 10.1186/s12864-021-07694-z
Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Mobashwer Alam, Saman Seneweera, Sujay Rakshit and Robert Henry eds. (2021). Molecular breeding in wheat, maize and sorghum: strategies for improving abiotic stress tolerance and yield. Wallingford, United Kingdom: CABI. doi: 10.1079/9781789245431.0000
Ultra-high-throughput DArTseq-based silicoDArT and SNP markers for genomic studies in macadamia
Alam, Mobashwer, Neal, Jodi, O'Connor, Katie, Kilian, Andrzej and Topp, Bruce (2018). Ultra-high-throughput DArTseq-based silicoDArT and SNP markers for genomic studies in macadamia. PLoS One, 13 (8) e0203465, e0203465. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203465
Estimating genetic parameters of architectural and reproductive traits in young macadamia cultivars
Toft, Benjamin D., Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2018). Estimating genetic parameters of architectural and reproductive traits in young macadamia cultivars. Tree Genetics and Genomes, 14 (4) 50. doi: 10.1007/s11295-018-1265-x
‘MPM1’: a macadamia hybrid showing breakdown of biological rhythm in morphogenesis
Alam, M.M., Neal, J., Howell, E., Russell, D. and Topp, B.L. (2018). ‘MPM1’: a macadamia hybrid showing breakdown of biological rhythm in morphogenesis. International Symposia on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture (ISTTH), Cairns, QLD, Australia, 20-25 November, 2016. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS). doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.78
Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of 'HAES741' and 'HAES660' macadamia cultivars
Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Nock, Catherine, O'Connor, Katie and Topp, Bruce (2017). Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of 'HAES741' and 'HAES660' macadamia cultivars. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Indirect prediction of macadamia yield through a genome wide association study of component traits
O'Connor, Katie, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Mobashwer Alam and Topp, Bruce (2017). Indirect prediction of macadamia yield through a genome wide association study of component traits. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Predicting tillering of diverse sorghum germplasm across environments
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer, van Oosterom, Erik J., Cruickshank, Alan W., Jordan, David R. and Hammer, Graeme L. (2017). Predicting tillering of diverse sorghum germplasm across environments. Crop Science, 57 (1), 1-10. doi: 10.2135/cropsci2016.04.0262
Alam, M. M., Mace, E. S., van Oosterom, E. J., Cruickshank, A., Hunt, C. H., Hammer G.L. and Jordan, D. R. (2014). QTL analysis in multiple sorghum populations facilitates the dissection of the genetic and physiological control of tillering. Theoretical and Applied Genetics, 127 (10), 2253-2266. doi: 10.1007/s00122-014-2377-9
A physiological framework to explain genetic and environmental regulation of tillering in sorghum
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer, Hammer, Graeme L., Van Oosterom, Erik J., Cruickshank, Alan W., Hunt, Colleen H. and Jordan, David R. (2014). A physiological framework to explain genetic and environmental regulation of tillering in sorghum. New Phytologist, 203 (1), 155-167. doi: 10.1111/nph.12767
Genetic mapping and modelling of tillering in sorghum
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer (2013). Genetic mapping and modelling of tillering in sorghum. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland.
Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Mobashwer Alam, Saman Seneweera, Sujay Rakshit and Robert Henry eds. (2021). Molecular breeding in wheat, maize and sorghum: strategies for improving abiotic stress tolerance and yield. Wallingford, United Kingdom: CABI. doi: 10.1079/9781789245431.0000
Current biotechnological approaches in maize improvement
Chakraborty, Moutoshi, Munshi, Saurab Kishore, Haque, Ashraful, Azad, Md. Abul Kalam, Islam, Tofazzal, Alam, Mobashwer and Shiddiky, Muhammad J. A. (2023). Current biotechnological approaches in maize improvement. Maize improvement: current advances in yield, quality, and stress tolerance under changing climatic scenarios. (pp. 137-180) Cham, Switzerland: Springer Cham. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-21640-4_8
Molecular breeding for combating salinity stress in sorghum: progress and prospects
Chakma, Nidhi, Chakraborty, Moutoshi, Bhyan, Salma and Alam, Mobashwer (2021). Molecular breeding for combating salinity stress in sorghum: progress and prospects. Molecular breeding in wheat, maize and sorghum: strategies for improving abiotic stress tolerance and yield. (pp. 421-432) edited by Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Mobashwer Alam, Saman Seneweera, Sujay Rakshit and Robert Henry. Wallingford, United Kingdom: CABI. doi: 10.1079/9781789245431.0024
Macadamia (Macadamia spp.) breeding
Topp, Bruce L., Nock, Catherine J., Hardner, Craig M., Alam, Mobashwer and O’Connor, Katie M. (2019). Macadamia (Macadamia spp.) breeding. Advances in plant breeding strategies: nut and beverage crops. (pp. 221-251) edited by Jameel M. Al-Khayri, Shri Mohan Jain and Dennis V. Johnson. Cham, Switzerland: Springer International Publishing. doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-23112-5_7
Ahmed, Borhan, Hasan, Fakhrul, Tabassum, Anika, Ahmed, Rasel, Hassan, Rajnee, Amin, Md. Ruhul and Alam, Mobashwer (2023). Genome-wide investigation of SnRK2 gene family in two jute species: Corchorus olitorius and Corchorus capsularis. Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 21 (1) 5, 1-17. doi: 10.1186/s43141-022-00453-x
CRISPR/Cas-Based Diagnostics in Agricultural Applications
Tanny, Tanzena, Sallam, Mohamed, Soda, Narshone, Nguyen, Nam-Trung, Alam, Mobashwer and Shiddiky, Muhammad J. A. (2023). CRISPR/Cas-Based Diagnostics in Agricultural Applications. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 71 (31), 11765-11788. doi: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c00913
Genetic parameters of husk spot resistance in macadamia breeding families
Nunn, Jasmine, Hardner, Craig, De Faveri, Joanne, Akinsanmi, Olufemi A., O’Connor, Katie, Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2023). Genetic parameters of husk spot resistance in macadamia breeding families. Euphytica, 219 (5) 54. doi: 10.1007/s10681-023-03169-2
Ahmed, Borhan, Alam, Mobashwer, Aktar, Nasima, Hossain, Md. Sabbir, Ullah, Md. Wali, Bashar, Kazi Khayrul, Kabir, Shah Md Tamim, Emdad, Emdadul Mannan and Islam, Md. Shahidul (2023). Genome-wide investigation of aquaporin genes in Corchorus spp and their role in organ development and abiotic stress tolerance. Plant Gene, 34 100410, 100410. doi: 10.1016/j.plgene.2023.100410
Nunn, Jasmine, Akinsanmi, Olufemi Akinyemi, Hardner, Craig, De Faveri, Joanne, O'Connor, Katie, Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2023). Evaluation of in-field inoculation methods for characterisation of macadamia germplasm to husk spot incidence and severity. Plant Disease, 107 (1), 76-82. doi: 10.1094/pdis-03-22-0507-re
The effects of pollen source on the fatty acid profile of macadamia kernels
Hu, Wei, Fitzgerald, Melissa, Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobashwer, Pun, Sharon, Dianna, Liu, Torrisi, Caterina and O’Hare, Tim J. (2023). The effects of pollen source on the fatty acid profile of macadamia kernels. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 115 104943, 1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jfca.2022.104943
Hassan, Md Mahmudul, Yuan, Guoliang, Liu, Yang, Alam, Mobashwer, Eckert, Carrie A., Tuskan, Gerald A., Golz, John F. and Yang, Xiaohan (2022). Precision genome editing in plants using gene targeting and prime editing: existing and emerging strategies. Biotechnology Journal, 17 (10) 2100673, 1-18. doi: 10.1002/biot.202100673
Nunn, Jasmine, De Faveri, Joanne De, O’Connor, Katie, Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Akinsanmi, Olufemi and Topp, Bruce (2022). Genome-wide association study for abscission failure of fruit pericarps (stick-tights) in wild macadamia germplasm. Agronomy, 12 (8) 1913, 1913. doi: 10.3390/agronomy12081913
Bhyan, Salma Begum, Cummins, Scott, Alam, Mobashwer and Zhao, Min (2022). Bioinformatic investigation and functional analysis of 214 hereditary genes identified non-coding RNAs as therapeautic tool for breast cancer management. Gene Reports, 27 101565, 101565. doi: 10.1016/j.genrep.2022.101565
Fatty acid diversity and interrelationships in macadamia nuts
Hu, Wei, Fitzgerald, Melissa, Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobashwer and O'Hare, Tim J. (2022). Fatty acid diversity and interrelationships in macadamia nuts. LWT, 154 112839, 112839. doi: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.112839
Discovery of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms for Resistance to Abnormal Vertical Growth in Macadamia
Zakeel, Mohamed Cassim Mohamed, Alam, Mobashwer, Geering, Andrew D. W., Topp, Bruce and Akinsanmi, Olufemi A. (2021). Discovery of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms for Resistance to Abnormal Vertical Growth in Macadamia. Frontiers in Plant Science, 12 756815, 756815. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2021.756815
Sharma, Priyanka, Murigneux, Valentine, Haimovitz, Jasmine, Nock, Catherine J., Tian, Wei, Kharabian Masouleh, Ardashir, Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobashwer, Furtado, Agnelo and Henry, Robert J. (2021). The genome of the endangered Macadamia jansenii displays little diversity but represents an important genetic resource for plant breeding. Plant Direct, 5 (12) e364, e364. doi: 10.1002/pld3.364
Mai, Thuy T. P., Hardner, Craig M., Alam, Mobashwer M., Henry, Robert J. and Topp, Bruce L. (2021). Phenotypic characterisation for growth and nut characteristics revealed the extent of genetic diversity in wild macadamia germplasm. Agriculture, 11 (7) 680, 1-14. doi: 10.3390/agriculture11070680
Vu, Sang V., Knibb, Wayne, Gondro, Cedric, Subramanian, Sankar, Nguyen, Ngoc T. H., Alam, Mobashwer, Dove, Michael, Gilmour, Arthur R., Vu, In Van, Bhyan, Salma, Tearle, Rick, Khuong, Le Duy, Le, Tuan Son and O’Connor, Wayne (2021). Genomic prediction for whole weight, body shape, meat yield, and color traits in the Portuguese oyster Crassostrea angulata. Frontiers in Genetics, 12 661276, 661276. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2021.661276
Genomic selection and genetic gain for nut yield in an Australian macadamia breeding population
O’Connor, Katie M., Hayes, Ben J., Hardner, Craig M., Alam, Mobashwer, Henry, Robert J. and Topp, Bruce L. (2021). Genomic selection and genetic gain for nut yield in an Australian macadamia breeding population. BMC Genomics, 22 (1) 370, 1-12. doi: 10.1186/s12864-021-07694-z
Ahmed, Borhan, Alam, Mobashwer, Hasan, Fakhrul, Emdad, Emdadul Mannan, Islam, Shahidul and Rahman, Nazibur (2020). Jute CDPK genes and their role in stress tolerance and fiber development: a genome-wide bioinformatic investigation of Chorchorus capsularis and C. olitorius. Plant Gene, 24 100252, 100252. doi: 10.1016/j.plgene.2020.100252
Mai, Thuy, Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Henry, Robert and Topp, Bruce (2020). Genetic structure of wild germplasm of macadamia: species assignment, diversity and phylogeographic relationships. Plants, 9 (6) 714, 1-16. doi: 10.3390/plants9060714
Genome-wide association studies for yield component traits in a macadamia breeding population
O’Connor, Katie, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Nock, Catherine, Baten, Abdul, Alam, Mobashwer, Henry, Robert and Topp, Bruce (2020). Genome-wide association studies for yield component traits in a macadamia breeding population. BMC Genomics, 21 (1) 199, 199. doi: 10.1186/s12864-020-6575-3
Hu, Wei, Fitzgerald, Melissa, Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobasher and O'Hare, Tim J. (2019). A review of biological functions, health benefits, and possible de novo biosynthetic pathway of palmitoleic acid in macadamia nuts. Journal of Functional Foods, 62 103520, 103520. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.103520
Scion control of miRNA abundance and tree maturity in grafted avocado
Ahsan, Muhammad Umair, Hayward, Alice, Alam, Mobashwer, Bandaralage, Jayeni Hiti, Topp, Bruce, Beveridge, Christine Anne and Mitter, Neena (2019). Scion control of miRNA abundance and tree maturity in grafted avocado. BMC Plant Biology, 19 (1) 382, 382. doi: 10.1186/s12870-019-1994-5
Anatomical structure associated with vegetative growth variation in macadamia
Toft, Benjamin D., Alam, Mobashwer M. and Topp, Bruce L. (2019). Anatomical structure associated with vegetative growth variation in macadamia. Plant and Soil, 444 (1-2), 343-350. doi: 10.1007/s11104-019-04285-6
Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of macadamia cultivars HAES741 and HAES660
Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Nock, Catherine, O’Connor, Katie and Topp, Bruce (2019). Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of macadamia cultivars HAES741 and HAES660. HortScience, 54 (4), 616-620. doi: 10.21273/hortsci13318-18
Toft, Benjamin D., Alam, Mobashwer M., Wilkie, John D. and Topp, Bruce L. (2019). Phenotypic association of multi-scale architectural traits with canopy volume and yield: moving toward high-density systems for macadamia. HortScience, 54 (4), 596-602. doi: 10.21273/hortsci13293-18
O’Connor, Katie, Kilian, Andrzej, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Nock, Catherine, Baten, Abdul, Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2019). Population structure, genetic diversity and linkage disequilibrium in a macadamia breeding population using SNP and silicoDArT markers. Tree Genetics & Genomes, 15 (2) 24, 24. doi: 10.1007/s11295-019-1331-z
Selecting for nut characteristics in macadamia using a genome-wide association study
O’Connor, Katie, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2019). Selecting for nut characteristics in macadamia using a genome-wide association study. HortScience, 54 (4), 629-632. doi: 10.21273/hortsci13297-18
Ultra-high-throughput DArTseq-based silicoDArT and SNP markers for genomic studies in macadamia
Alam, Mobashwer, Neal, Jodi, O'Connor, Katie, Kilian, Andrzej and Topp, Bruce (2018). Ultra-high-throughput DArTseq-based silicoDArT and SNP markers for genomic studies in macadamia. PLoS One, 13 (8) e0203465, e0203465. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203465
Estimating genetic parameters of architectural and reproductive traits in young macadamia cultivars
Toft, Benjamin D., Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2018). Estimating genetic parameters of architectural and reproductive traits in young macadamia cultivars. Tree Genetics and Genomes, 14 (4) 50. doi: 10.1007/s11295-018-1265-x
Howell, E., Russell, D., Alam, M. M. and Topp, B. L. (2018). Variability of initial and final nut set in elite macadamia selections using different pollination methods. Acta Horticulturae (1205), 617-622. doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.76
Predicting tillering of diverse sorghum germplasm across environments
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer, van Oosterom, Erik J., Cruickshank, Alan W., Jordan, David R. and Hammer, Graeme L. (2017). Predicting tillering of diverse sorghum germplasm across environments. Crop Science, 57 (1), 1-10. doi: 10.2135/cropsci2016.04.0262
Alam, M. M., Mace, E. S., van Oosterom, E. J., Cruickshank, A., Hunt, C. H., Hammer G.L. and Jordan, D. R. (2014). QTL analysis in multiple sorghum populations facilitates the dissection of the genetic and physiological control of tillering. Theoretical and Applied Genetics, 127 (10), 2253-2266. doi: 10.1007/s00122-014-2377-9
A physiological framework to explain genetic and environmental regulation of tillering in sorghum
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer, Hammer, Graeme L., Van Oosterom, Erik J., Cruickshank, Alan W., Hunt, Colleen H. and Jordan, David R. (2014). A physiological framework to explain genetic and environmental regulation of tillering in sorghum. New Phytologist, 203 (1), 155-167. doi: 10.1111/nph.12767
Rahman, H., Alam, M. M. and Akanda, A. M. (2008). Alteration of cellular nutritional elements and nucleic acids of papaya leaves infected with seven symptomatic isolates of PRSV-P. International Journal of Agricultural Research, 3 (3), 219-226. doi: 10.3923/ijar.2008.219.226
Alteration of cellular pigments of papaya leaves infected with seven symptomatic isolates of PRSV-P
Rahman, H., Alam, M. M., Bhyan, S. B. and Akanda, A. M. (2008). Alteration of cellular pigments of papaya leaves infected with seven symptomatic isolates of PRSV-P. Journal of Plant Sciences, 3 (1), 69-76. doi: 10.3923/jps.2008.69.76
Effect of Plant Extracts on Okra mosaic virus incidence and Yield Related Parameters of Okra
Bhyan, S. B., Alam, M. M. and Ali, M. S. (2007). Effect of Plant Extracts on Okra mosaic virus incidence and Yield Related Parameters of Okra. Asian Journal of Agricultural Research, 1 (3), 112-118. doi: 10.3923/ajar.2007.112.118
Floral Biology of Different Exotic and Indigenous Ash Gourd Genotypes (Benincasa hispida)
Latif, M. A., Alam, M. M., Alam, M. K. and Rahman, M. M. (2007). Floral Biology of Different Exotic and Indigenous Ash Gourd Genotypes (Benincasa hispida). International Journal of Plant Breeding and Genetics, 1 (2), 67-74. doi: 10.3923/ijpbg.2007.67.74
Incidence and Severity of Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus under Phytopesticidal Management
Bhyan, S. B., Chowdhury, M. A. H., Alam, M. M. and Ali, M. S. (2007). Incidence and Severity of Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus under Phytopesticidal Management. International Journal of Agricultural Research, 2 (7), 590-598. doi: 10.3923/ijar.2007.590.598
Influence of Nitrogen and Potassium on Yield Contributing Bulb Traits of Onion
Dilruba, S., Alam, M. M., Hasan, M. F. and Rahman, M. A. (2006). Influence of Nitrogen and Potassium on Yield Contributing Bulb Traits of Onion. International Journal of Agricultural Research, 1 (1), 85-90. doi: 10.3923/ijar.2006.85.90
Biswas, T. K., Rahman, M. A., Khan, M. M. H., Alam, M. M. and Jahan, M. (2006). Toxic Effects of two Insecticides on Brown Plant Hopper, Nilaparvata lugens and its Predators, Micraspis discolor and Lycosa pseudoannulata. International Journal of Zoological Research, 2 (2), 192-203. doi: 10.3923/ijzr.2006.192.203
Combining Ability for Flower and Pod Characters of Lablab Bean under Two Sowing Environments
Alam, M. M. and Newaz, M. A. (2005). Combining Ability for Flower and Pod Characters of Lablab Bean under Two Sowing Environments. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 4 (6), 603-607. doi: 10.3923/ajps.2005.603.607
Environmental Effect on Growth and Yield of Tomato
Hasan, M. F., Ahmed, B., Rahman, M. A., Alam, M. M. and Khan, M. H. (2005). Environmental Effect on Growth and Yield of Tomato. Journal of Biological Sciences, 5 (6), 759-767. doi: 10.3923/jbs.2005.759.767
The effect of maturity on the concentration of fatty acids in macadamia
Hu, Wei , O'Hare, Tim , Fitzgerald, Melissa , Topp, Bruce and Alam, Mobashwer (2022). The effect of maturity on the concentration of fatty acids in macadamia. TropAg International Agriculture Conference, Brisbane, Australia, 31 October - 2 November 2022.
Hu, W., Fitzgerald, M., Topp, B., Alam, M. and O'Hare, T. (2022). Diversity of omega-7 (palmitoleic acid) content in macadamia nuts and possible biosynthetic pathways influencing its concentration. 3rd International Conference on Food Bioactives & Health, Parma, Italy, 21-24 June 2022. Parma, Italy: MV Congressie.
Evaluating seven macadamia seedling and cutting rootstocks for their effect on scion growth
Poudel, Pragya Dhakal , Cowan, Max , Topp, Bruce and Alam, Mobashwer (2022). Evaluating seven macadamia seedling and cutting rootstocks for their effect on scion growth. The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Plant Sciences, Online, 1-15 Dec 2021. Basel, Switzerland: MDPI. doi: 10.3390/iecps2021-12040
Crown position and rootstock genotype influence leaf stomatal density in Macadamia sp.
Wakefield, Sam , Topp, Bruce and Alam, Mobashwer (2022). Crown position and rootstock genotype influence leaf stomatal density in Macadamia sp.. The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Plant Sciences, Online, 1-15 December 2021. Basel, Switzerland: MDPI. doi: 10.3390/iecps2021-11922
Nguyen, Truong Duc , Topp, Bruce and Alam, Mobashwer (2022). Image based phenotyping of shell thickness revealed strong association with kernel recovery in macadamia. The 2nd International Electronic Conference on Plant Sciences, Online, 1-15 December 2021. Basel, Switzerland: MDPI. doi: 10.3390/iecps2021-12037
Macadamia nuts – good fats, bad fats, and biofortification
O’Hare, T. J., Hong, H. T., Pun, S., Liu, D., Torrisi, C., Mai, T., Alam, M., Russell, D. and Topp, B. (2020). Macadamia nuts – good fats, bad fats, and biofortification. XXX International Horticultural Congress IHC2018: International Symposium on Fruit and Vegetables for Processing, International Symposium on Quality and Safety of Horticultural Products and VII International Symposium on Human Health Effects of Fruits and Vegetables, Istanbul, Turkey, 12 August 2018. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science. doi: 10.17660/ACTAHORTIC.2020.1292_50
Breeding for resistance to husk spot disease in macadamia
Nunn, Jasmine, Alam, Mobashwer, Akinsanmi, Olufemi, Hardner, Craig and Topp, Bruce (2020). Breeding for resistance to husk spot disease in macadamia. The Third International Tropical Agriculture Conference, Brisbane, QLD Australia, 11-13 November 2019. Basel, Switzerland: MDPI AG. doi: 10.3390/proceedings2019036103
Phylogenetic relationship among Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla wild accessions
Mai, Thuy Thi Phuong, Alam, Mobashwer, Henry, Robert, Hardner, Craig and Topp, Bruce (2020). Phylogenetic relationship among Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla wild accessions. Third International Tropical Agriculture Conference (TROPAG 2019), Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 11–13 November 2019. Basel, Switzerland: M D P I AG. doi: 10.3390/proceedings2019036067
Toft, B. D., Alam, M. M. and Topp, B. L. (2018). Broad-sense heritability and inter-trait relationships in young macadamia architecture, flowering and yield. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science. doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.75
Early growth and graft success in macadamia seedling and cutting rootstocks
Alam, M. M., Wilkie, J. and Topp, B. L. (2018). Early growth and graft success in macadamia seedling and cutting rootstocks. International Symposia on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture (ISTTH), Cairns, QLD, Australia, 20-25 November 2016. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS). doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.79
Variation in floral and growth traits in a macadamia breeding population
O’Connor, K.M., Hardner, C.M., Alam, M.M., Hayes, B.J. and Topp, B.L. (2018). Variation in floral and growth traits in a macadamia breeding population. International Symposia on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture (ISTTH), Cairns, QLD, Australia, 20-25 November, 2016. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS). doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.77
Variation in precocity in a macadamia breeding population
Alam, M.M., Howell, E., Hardner, C.M. and Topp, B.L. (2018). Variation in precocity in a macadamia breeding population. International Symposia on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture (ISTTH), Cairns, QLD, Australia, 20-25 November, 2016. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS). doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.80
‘MPM1’: a macadamia hybrid showing breakdown of biological rhythm in morphogenesis
Alam, M.M., Neal, J., Howell, E., Russell, D. and Topp, B.L. (2018). ‘MPM1’: a macadamia hybrid showing breakdown of biological rhythm in morphogenesis. International Symposia on Tropical and Temperate Horticulture (ISTTH), Cairns, QLD, Australia, 20-25 November, 2016. Leuven, Belgium: International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS). doi: 10.17660/actahortic.2018.1205.78
Genetic diversity and variability in graft success in Australian macadamia rootstocks
Alam, Mohammad, Wilkie, John, Kelly, Allison, Hardner, Craig and Topp, Bruce (2017). Genetic diversity and variability in graft success in Australian macadamia rootstocks. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of 'HAES741' and 'HAES660' macadamia cultivars
Alam, Mobashwer, Hardner, Craig, Nock, Catherine, O'Connor, Katie and Topp, Bruce (2017). Historical and molecular evidence of genetic identity of 'HAES741' and 'HAES660' macadamia cultivars. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Identifying markers associated with disease-harbouring stick-tights in macadamia
O'Connor, Katie , Hayes, Ben , Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2017). Identifying markers associated with disease-harbouring stick-tights in macadamia. International Tropical Agriculture Conference TropAg 2017, Brisbane, Australia, 19-20 November 2017.
Indirect prediction of macadamia yield through a genome wide association study of component traits
O'Connor, Katie, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Mobashwer Alam and Topp, Bruce (2017). Indirect prediction of macadamia yield through a genome wide association study of component traits. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Alam, Mobashwer, Neal, Jodi, O'Connor, Katie, Nock, Catherine, Langdon, Kirsty and Topp, Bruce (2017). Morphological and molecular characterization of self-pollinated vs naturally out-crossed progeny of macadamia: a case study of 'HAES741'. International Tropical Agriculture Conference TropAg 2017, Brisbane, Australia, 19-20 November 2017.
Opportunities and challenges in macadamia breeding
Topp, Bruce, Hardner, Craig, Alam, Mobashwer, Akinsanmi, Olufemi, O'Connor, Katie, Mai, Thuy and Russell, Dougal (2017). Opportunities and challenges in macadamia breeding. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, USA, 13-14 September 2017.
Prospects of utilizing wild germplasm for future improvement of macadamia
Mai, Thuy, Alam, Mobashwer, Henry, Robert, Hardner, Craig and Topp, Bruce (2017). Prospects of utilizing wild germplasm for future improvement of macadamia. International Tropical Agriculture Conference TropAg2017, Brisbane, Australia, 20-22 November 2017.
Searching for extended variability in nut characteristics in wild macadamia gene pool
Mai, Thuy, Alam, Mobashwer, Topp, Bruce, Hardner, Craig and Henry, Robert (2017). Searching for extended variability in nut characteristics in wild macadamia gene pool. International Tropical Agriculture Conference TropAg 2017, Brisbane, Australia, 19-20 November 2017. Lausanne, Switzerland: Frontiers.
Toft, B., Topp, B. and Alam, M. (2017). Trait mining for high-density macadamia planting systems: how important are more detailed architectural characteristics. International Macadamia Research Symposium, Hawaii, United States, 13-14 September 2017.
Exploring physiological and genetic determinants of tillering in sorghum
Alam, M. M., Hammer, G. L., van Oosterom, E. J., Cruickshank, A. and Jordan, D. R. (2010). Exploring physiological and genetic determinants of tillering in sorghum. 2010 Australian Summer Grains Conference, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, 21-24 June 2010. Canberra, ACT, Australia: Grains Research & Development Corporation.
Characterising genetic variation in tillering in sorghum
Alam, M.M., Hammer, G.L., Van Oosterom, E.J., Cruickshank, A., Hunt, C. and Jordan, D.R. (2009). Characterising genetic variation in tillering in sorghum. 14th Australasian Plant Breeding & 11th SABRAO Conference, Cairns, Australia, 10-14 August, 2009. Thailand: Society for Advancement of Breeding Research in Asia and Oceania.
SNP and phenotype data, and GWAS results for macadamia breeding progeny population
O'Connor, Katie, Hayes, Ben, Hardner, Craig, Alam, Mobashwer and Topp, Bruce (2019). SNP and phenotype data, and GWAS results for macadamia breeding progeny population. The University of Queensland. (Dataset) doi: 10.14264/uql.2019.808
DArTseq based silicoDArT and SNP data
Topp, Bruce and Alam, Mobashwer (2018). DArTseq based silicoDArT and SNP data. The University of Queensland. (Dataset) doi: 10.14264/uql.2018.394
DArTseq markers of wild macadamia species
Topp, Bruce, Alam, Mobashwer and Mai, Thuy (2018). DArTseq markers of wild macadamia species. The University of Queensland. (Dataset) doi: 10.14264/uql.2018.395
SNPs and silicoDArT markers of B1.2 progeny and parents
Topp, Bruce, O'Connor, Katie and Alam, Mohammad (2018). SNPs and silicoDArT markers of B1.2 progeny and parents. The University of Queensland. (Dataset) doi: 10.14264/uql.2018.491
Genetic mapping and modelling of tillering in sorghum
Alam, Mohammad Mobashwer (2013). Genetic mapping and modelling of tillering in sorghum. PhD Thesis, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland.
National Passionfruit Breeding and Evaluation Program
(2023–2028) Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited
Integrating technologies for rapid domestication in macadmaia
(2023–2026) Advance Queensland Industry Research Fellowships
(2022–2023) Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited
(2021–2025) Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
MC17006 Macadamia Regional Variety Trials Series 4
(2020–2026) Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
National Macadamia Breeding and Evaluation Program
(2019–2024) Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited
Genetic basis of the variability in nut traits and their association with nut borer resistance in macadamia
Master Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Exploring the genetic and physiological basis of scion vigour in macadamia
Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Genetic Factors Affecting the Accumulation of Palmitoleic Acid and other Beneficial Fatty Acids in Macadamia Nut Kernels.
Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
Study of self-fertility in a macadamia breeding program
Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
Genetic variation in Macadamia for resistance to Husk Spot, caused by Pseudocercospora macadamiae
(2023) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Genomic-assisted exploitation of wild germplasm for improvement of macadamia
(2021) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Selection strategies to improve yield in macadamia using component traits and genomics
(2019) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Note for students: The possible research projects listed on this page may not be comprehensive or up to date. Always feel free to contact the staff for more information, and also with your own research ideas.
Genetics of stomatal size and density in Macadamia
Macadamia is an Australian native crop that is economically significant due to the numerous health benefits of its extremely valuable nut. To develop climate-resistant crops, the Australian macadamia breeding programme focuses on identifying simple and heritable features associated with low water loss and high photosynthesis. Stomatal pores in a leaf's epidermis allow for water loss via transpiration and CO2 absorption for photosynthesis. Stomata size and density are important factors in plant water efficiency and carbon capture. It may be possible to maximise CO2 uptake and water loss by adjusting the size and density of stomata. Many genes and signalling pathways are involved in the complex regulation of stomatal development. The genetic basis of macadamia stomatal size and density remains unknown. This study will investigate the phenotypic variation of the macadamia stomatal apparatus in a wide range of breeding progeny, cultivars, and wild germplasm. The trait's heritability will be determined, and a genome-wide association study will be conducted to identify potential genes associated with the trait. Discovering the genetic basis of the traits in macadamia will be useful for future breeding decisions and planning.
This project is available for Summer scholarship/Honours/Masters coursework/MPhil students, can also be extended to a PhD project.
The student will develop skills in phenotyping, genetics, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
Location: Maroochy Research Facility, 47 Mayers Rd, Nambour. Student needs to travel to Nambour, Tairo and Bundaberg for data/sample collection)
Required background: Genetics, Plant Breeding, Genomics, Botany, Biology, Plant Physiology
Molecular investigation to determine species composition and extent of genetic base of Australian elite selections of Macadamia
Macadamia is an Australian native crop and is highly valued for its kernel. Using the available cultivars as parents, Australian national macadamia breeding program generated >15,000 breeding progeny and selected 53 elites through first and generation of progeny evaluation. Most of the parents of these selections belong to Macadamia integrifolia or M. tetraphylla or their hybrids. Although pedigree information of the 53 selections is available, species identity is still unexplored.
This project is aimed to investigate the genetic patterns in 53 elite selections and will identify species composition using high-throughput markers. Genetic information from wild species will be used in species composition analysis. Genetic diversity of the selected accessions will be compared with the diversity within cultivated and wild gene pools.
This project is available for summer or winter scholarship/Masters coursework/Hounours students.
Location: Maroochy Research Facility, 47 Mayers Rd, Nambour.
Required background: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology / Genetics / Agriculture/ Botany/ Plant Breeding /Environmental Science/ Ecology
Macadamia root stock genetics on the variability in scion architecture and branching.
The management of excessive vigour through pruning and hedging is a major expense in commercial macadamia orchards. Recently, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (QDAF) and the University of Queensland (UQ) took initiatives to control scion vigour by using rootstocks through two consecutive Horticulture Innovation (HI) Australia funded projects: “Transforming subtropical/tropical tree crop productivity” (AI 13004) and National Tree Crop Intensification in Horticulture Program (AS18000). A diverse range of germplasm of macadamia rootstocks were planted at Nambour with a single scion cultivar. Investigating the effect of rootstocks on the variability in the architectural traits and branching pattern of the scion will be useful to select rootstocks for vigour management. In this project, the scholar will collaborate with a research higher degree student and measure growth traits and branching pattern of a common scion. A branching index equation will be developed to characterise trees for the variability in branching. Statistical analysis will be conducted to find out the effect of rootstock genotypes on scion vigour.
This project is available for Summer scholarship/Honour/Masters course work/MPhil and can be extended to a PhD project.
Required background: Genetics / Agriculture/ Botany/ Plant Breeding /Environmental Science/ Ecology
Genome wide association study on the phenotypic variability in flowering time in macadamia
Flowering is a phenological trait, which is important for orchard management and productivity. Planting cultivars with known time of flowering will assist farmers in orchard management decisions regarding fertilization, irrigation, establishment of pollinators and pest control. Over the last few decades, the Australian industry breeding program has developed and phenotypically characterized a large collection of cultivated and wild germplasm and multi-parental seedling populations. A quantitative genetic analysis of the phenotypic data will be useful to select progeny with known flowering time. However, the conventional tree breeding approach is time consuming, and laborious. Genomic approach offers potential to increase breeding efficiency through marker-assisted selection. Discovering molecular markers involved in the variability in flowering will help breeders to develop an efficient selection tool. This project was aimed to explore the variability and inheritance pattern of flowering phenology in macadmaia germplasm and to identify genomic regions associated with the trait variation. Using high-throughput DNA marker, a genome-wide association study will be conducted on a colelction of wild genetic resources. Identified markers can be use in future marker assisted selection of breeding progeny.
This project is available for Summer scholarship/Honour/Masters course work/MPhil and can be extended to a PhD project.
Location: Maroochy Research Facility, 47 Mayers Rd, Nambour
Required background: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology / Genetics / Agriculture/ Botany/ Plant Breeding /Environmental Science/ Ecology