Welcome to International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics Dryland Academy, where the future of the dryland are defined by possibility.
Nestled at the intersection of world-class research, leading-edge science, and practical outcomes, the Dryland Academy stands as a beacon of learning and knowledge sharing for better agri-food systems in the dryland of Asia, Africa, and beyond.
In an era characterized by environmental challenges and a rapidly growing global population, the necessity for resilient and sustainable agricultural practices has never been more apparent.
ICRISAT's Dryland Academy is a dynamic response to these pressing issues, drawing upon ICRISAT's rich legacy of research excellence over fifty years. With a profound commitment to tackling the unique challenges of semi-arid regions, the Academy offers a transformative platform that combines rigorous scientific inquiry with actionable solutions through pragmatic courses. At the core of the Dryland Academy's ethos is its emphasis on world-class research learnings.
Collaborating with leading experts from diverse fields, the Academy cultivates an environment that encourages interdisciplinary exploration and discovery. Here, researchers, academics, and practitioners converge to unravel the complexities of dryland agri-food systems, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.
Powered by leading-edge science, the Academy fosters an ecosystem of innovation that bridges theory and practice. From advanced crop breeding techniques to precision agriculture and climate-smart practices, the Academy leverages the latest scientific breakthroughs to shape sustainable solutions tailored to the unique demands of dryland environments. By embracing emerging technologies and methodologies, the Dryland Academy propels agri-food systems towards resilience, productivity, and enhanced livelihoods.
However, the true measure of the Dryland Academy's success lies not just in its scientific prowess, but in the tangible, practical outcomes it delivers. As an institution deeply rooted in the communities it serves, the Academy ensures that its research translates into meaningful impacts on the ground.
Mastering CRISPR/Cas9-based Gene Editing Technologies in Plants
In the dynamic realm of modern agriculture, the advancement of Novel Breeding Technologies (NBT) has ignited a revolution, with Gene Editing (GE) at its very core. Harnessing the potential of GE, breeders have gained unprecedented tools and technologies that transcend traditional breeding methods. These innovations hold the promise of rapid and precise trait manipulation without compromising native phenotypes. The result? A paradigm shift poised to accelerate genetic discovery, amplify product development, and usher in a new era of agri-food systems characterized by reduced input costs and exponential enhancements in both agronomic performance and nutritional quality.
For researchers with an appetite for leading-edge knowledge and hands-on experience, the "CRISPR/Cas9-based Gene Editing Technologies in Plants" training program offers a transformative journey into the heart of gene editing. This program serves as a comprehensive bridge between theory and practice, designed to equip participants with a well-rounded understanding of the intricate processes involved.
Immerse yourself in the art of gene editing workflows as we guide you through the entire spectrum of the process. From the inception of target-specific guide RNAs (gRNAs) to the precise delivery of these genetic instruments into plant cells, and culminating in the detection and analysis of resulting mutations – this course unravels the nuances of each stage, demystifying the once-complex landscape of gene editing.
Enriched by the collective expertise of our accomplished team, this training program is poised to empower participants to evolve their experimental methodologies. The future of agriculture is here, and it hinges on the transformative capabilities of gene editing. Join us in this exciting endeavor, where theory and practice converge to unlock a world of boundless possibilities.
Upon completing the "CRISPR/Cas9-based Gene Editing Technologies in Plants" training program, participants will be able to:
Conceptualize Gene Editing: Demonstrate a deep understanding of gene editing concepts, explaining the underlying mechanisms and its potential for targeted genetic modifications.
Craft Effective Designs: Skillfully design guide RNAs and construct CRISPR/Cas9 systems, optimizing the efficiency and accuracy of genetic modifications for specific applications.
Apply High-Throughput Techniques: Utilize advanced high-throughput techniques to expedite gene editing applications, effectively managing multiple genetic targets simultaneously.
Validate with Precision: Conduct molecular and functional validations of edited genetic lines, interpreting results to ascertain the success and impact of gene editing interventions.
Navigate Ethics and Biosafety: Engage in informed discussions on the ethical implications of gene editing technologies, demonstrating an understanding of biosafety measures and responsible implementation.
Researchers and Scientists: Seeking to expand their knowledge and practical skills in CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing technologies, with a focus on applications in plants.
Plant Breeders: Looking to enhance their repertoire of techniques by incorporating precision gene editing for targeted trait improvement in crops.
Graduate Students: Eager to gain hands-on experience and theoretical insights into gene editing, complementing their academic pursuits.
Agricultural Professionals: Interested in staying at the forefront of advancements in sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to food security.
Biotechnology Enthusiasts: Wishing to delve into the intricate world of gene editing, and exploring its potential applications in agriculture.
Academics and Educators: Seeking to update their curriculum with the latest advancements in genetic manipulation techniques and their ethical implications.
Research Institutions and Laboratories: Wanting to equip their teams with practical expertise in gene editing for robust and innovative research projects.
Applications are invited from researchers who are familiar with basic molecular and cell biology techniques and want to learn gene editing applications in agriculture using the most advanced CRISPR systems. While previous experience in gene editing is not required, the participants are expected to have fundamental knowledge and working experience in molecular biology and transformation techniques.
Genome Editing technologies - applications and future prospectives
Editing of crop genomes for trait development: new directions and challenges
Development of biotic and abiotic stress tolerance through CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing system and functional genomics approach
Crop improvement using a genome-editing approach
New breeding tools for accelerated breeding in dryland cereals
Bioinformatics tools for gRNA(s) design
Strategies and cloning of the gRNA(s) and Cas9 in the plant expression vectors
Agrobacterium transformation for the CRISPR/ Cas9 recombinant plasmids by electroporation
Demonstration of delivery of CRISPR cassettes into plant cells
Identification of mutations
Molecular analysis of the gene-edited plants
To be announced
Accomplished trainers from National and International Research Organizations
All course notes and lectures will be in English. Therefore, participants should have a good knowledge of English and be familiar with the appropriate technical terms of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology.
INR 14,000 (without accommodation)
INR 25,000 (with accommodation)
INR 17,000 (without accommodation)
INR 28,000 (with accommodation)
INR 30,000 (without accommodation)
INR 45,000 (with accommodation)
The venue for the training program is the Platform for Translational Research on Transgenic Crops (PTTC) building, ICRISAT Campus, Patancheru, Hyderabad, India.
Participants will be accommodated in the Guest House/Hotel during training. The cost of any additional stay (beyond the dates of training) would be at the trainee's own expense. Information on an extended stay needs to be given in advance.
BioNcube: Cultivating Ag-Biotech Innovation at the Nexus of Research and Applications
BioNcube stands as an innovative powerhouse within the realm of ag-biotech, nurtured by the BIRAC-Bio incubator. Dedicated to catalyzing transformative change, BioNcube fuels the progression of diverse biotechnological solutions across an array of domains, spanning from fundamental research to the tangible realization of pioneering products.
Harnessing the synergy between visionary thinking and pragmatic implementation, BioNcube is a springboard for agribiotech start-ups. Within its nurturing embrace, these emerging enterprises are granted an unprecedented gateway to the collective scientific wisdom of ICRISAT. The dynamic laboratories at BioNcube are more than mere spaces – they are veritable crucibles of innovation, boasting state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure that encompass plant genotyping, phenotyping, transgenic marvels, gene editing breakthroughs, greenhouses teeming with potential, molecular biology marvels, leading-edge transformation facilities, and secured experimental fields.
At the core of BioNcube's essence lies an unparalleled value proposition: to interweave business incubation with the profound journey of translation. With a relentless focus on ag-biotech start-ups, BioNcube diligently shepherds them from the intricate proof-of-concept stage through the intricate tapestry of technology translation to the pinnacle of commercialization. This ascendancy doesn't merely serve enterprise ambitions; it heralds the empowerment of farming communities worldwide.
BioNcube is more than a concept – it's an avant-garde narrative of transformation. As it bridges the chasm between innovation and application, it illuminates a path that leads not just to progress, but to a future where biotechnological breakthroughs flourish, agriculture prospers, and communities thrive.
To be announced
The application can be accessed from the following link: https://forms.gle/3ASkZzCVJ6hBvLfL6
The completed application should be submitted through the link or sent to bioncube@cgiar.org with a copy to wricha.tyagi@icrisat.org, sudhakarreddy.palakolanu@icrisat.org and yogendra.kalenahalli@icrisat.org.
The increasing effect of climate change and its likely impact on food production has enhanced global awareness on Dryland Crops (DCs) as a promising solution for ensuring food security under difficult environments. Beyond their potential as sources of resilience traits, DCs improve sustainability of food systems, are packed with desirable nutrients, and in some cases, have medicinal and/or cosmetic value.
Despite previous low research investments, recent advances in innovative technologies are promising to fast track the development of farmer-preferred varieties for these crops. In the last decade alone, high quality reference genomes have been generated for more than 30 DCs, making it possible to undertake Genomic Selection (GS).
Genomic selection is a powerful form of marker-assisted selection (MAS) that enables concurrent improvement of target traits using a large set of genome-wide markers. This training workshop is designed for those actively involved in breeding DCs and plan to integrate, or are in the process of integrating GS in their programs.
We will use sample, as well as user-generated datasets to facilitate the optimization of prediction models and demonstrate how to successfully implement GS for different DCs at various stages of breeding.
To share knowledge on the implementation of GS; identify potential entry points for breeders of different dryland crops based on the various stages of breeding, and to use own datasets to streamline and optimise on-going GS programs.
Breeders of various DCs equipped with the relevant information to initiate and optimise routine GS in their breeding programs.
This will be a 5-day workshop to be held at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) headquarters, Patancheru, India.
Maximum 25 participants.
Powerpoint presentations; sample datasets; data analysis software; course content hand-outs; field visits; discussions and hands-on practical sessions etc.
Damaris Odeny
Principal Scientist I - Genomics,Pre Breeding and Bioinformatics
Accelerated Crop Improvement
Damaris.Odeny@Icrisat.org
Padmaja Ravula
Principal Scientist I – Sociologist
Cluster Leader – Knowledge and Capacity Development
Enabling Systems Transformation
Padmaja.ravula@icrisat.org
The application can be accessed from the following link: https://bit.ly/3YoI9pI
Promoting food security, climate resilience and sustainable livelihood systems within resource-constrained smallholder farming systems is a major priority for governments, development partners, and the Research and Development institutions globally.
Data-driven decision making considering the local resources, context, and markets enables policymakers and stakeholders to promote context-specific innovations and technologies that support the development of resilient and inclusive farming systems and value chains. Despite the efforts to introduce climate-resilient innovations and technologies, ensuring their widespread adoption and integration remains a significant challenge for various stakeholders.
Numerous improved technologies and practices are being suggested to enhance the performance of complex multi-objective smallholder farming systems. However, these systems are highly heterogeneous and need differentiated interventions and strategies. To achieve transformation towards resilient, profitable, inclusive and environmentally sustainable farm and food systems, it is essential to consider the economic, social, environmental sustainability, as well as human wellbeing dimensions of the smallholder farming systems. Additionally, the inability of the farmers, extension actors, and policymakers to fully visualize the potential impact of different agricultural development strategies on these heterogenous farming systems hinders decisions on investments. This in turn limits progress towards increasing food production, farm profitability and other related objectives over both the short and long-time horizon. An innovations systems approach can help create the necessary conditions to drive demand for technologies, innovations, while also facilitating the use of knowledge to bring about such changes.
An important component of innovation systems thinking is that innovations most often emerge from systems of actors collaborating and communicating. Key to facilitating this dialogue is the use of systems analysis using computer-based simulation tools. In the context of smallholder resource poor agriculture, common and widely applied tools include climate based- crop risk management tools, household bio-economic models’ approach (e.g. optimization, cash-flow budgeting), coupled farm-region-national system dynamic models (e.g. value chain model), whole farm dynamic models, multi-dimensional sustainability assessment tool and integrated assessments to develop climate resilient farm and food systems. These tools can be instrumental in promoting climate-resilient farm and food systems.
The focus of this two-week hands-on training program is on how these tools and approaches are being applied in research for development, particularly in identifying market-led opportunities and developing climate-resilient action plans. Participants will receive practical training on Systems modelling and integrated assessment tools supporting decision making on investments, and technology and enterprise choices across agricultural value chains and food system by various stakeholders including policy makers.
Participants can be from the National Agricultural Research and Extension System, Government departments such as the department of agriculture, rural development, and animal husbandry, NGOs engaged in agriculture, people from industries related to agriculture, and government policy makers.
Experiential learning and two field visits
30- 35
Prospective applicants from any country except India can be able to apply for the course on the website of ITEC, Govt of India.
ITEC: Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation
Note: The potential candidate after filling the form online, may need to submit copy of the filled application to Indian Embassy/consulate in their country for funding approval.
Dr Shalander Kumar
Principal Scientist I - Genomics,Pre Breeding and Bioinformatics
Accelerated Crop Improvement
Shalander.Kumar@icrisat.org
Padmaja Ravula
Deputy Global Research Program Director
Enabling Systems Transformation
Cluster Leader: Markets, Institutions and Policies
International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Padmaja.ravula@icrisat.org
The application can be accessed from the following link: ITEC: Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation
BioNcube, a BIRAC-Bio incubator of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), invites applications for “Hands-on training on Proteomics and metabolomics using Mass Spectrometry.” ICRISAT is a globally recognized non-profit agricultural research institute renowned for its cutting-edge facilities in Agri-biotechnology research and for translating scientific innovations into practical applications. This training course will take place from December 04 - 06, 2024 at ICRISAT, located in Patancheru, Hyderabad, India (502 324).
This course will provide a comprehensive introduction to mass spectrometry, covering essential topics such as sample preparation and data analysis techniques. It serves as an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge of proteomics and metabolomics within the context of cellular studies. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with our team of scientists and experts throughout the program. Our goal is for all attendees to effectively apply this knowledge to their research interests and improve their workflows.
Mass spectrometry (MS) is essential for selectively acquiring data to identify and quantify individual peptides and metabolites. It works in conjunction with bioinformatics tools that correlate empirical mass data with established protein and metabolite databases. These technological advances have greatly improved the depth and accuracy of proteomic and metabolomic analyses, facilitating the emergence of true single-cell proteomics and metabolomics. The primary objective of this training program is to equip participants with both theoretical and practical insights into the principles of proteomics and metabolomics. This knowledge will enhance their understanding and application of these techniques in their research. In recent years, mass spectrometry-based proteomics and metabolomics have become powerful methodologies for the identification, characterization, and quantification of proteins and metabolites, which are vital for comprehending cellular functions.
This course will provide a comprehensive introduction to mass spectrometry, covering essential topics such as sample preparation and data analysis techniques. It serves as an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge of proteomics and metabolomics within the context of cellular studies. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with our team of scientists and experts throughout the program. Our goal is for all attendees to effectively apply this knowledge to their research interests and improve their workflows.
Purpose
BioNcube is a BIRAC-Bio incubator dedicated to promoting innovation in agricultural biotechnology by facilitating the development and implementation of a diverse array of biotechnological solutions, from basic research to product translation. Start-ups within BioNcube gain access to the scientific expertise of ICRISAT and advanced biotechnology laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instruments, including LC-MS, HPLC, 2-D gel apparatus, and SDS-PAGE. Moreover, they benefit from a comprehensive infrastructure that includes plant genotyping, phenotyping, transgenic facilities, greenhouses, molecular biology labs, transformation facilities, and contained fields. The value proposition of the BIRAC-Bio incubator is its ability to integrate business incubation with technology translation. It offers extensive support to ag-biotech start-ups, guiding them from the proof-of-concept phase through to technology commercialization. This initiative ultimately aims to benefit farming communities and improve agricultural practices.
Resource people for this course will be from National and International Research Organizations.
All course notes and lectures will be in English. Therefore, participants should have a good knowledge of English and be aware of the appropriate technical terms of metabolomics and proteomics technology.
The training program will be held at the Platform for Translational Research on Transgenic Crops (PTTC) building, ICRISAT Campus, Patancheru, Hyderabad.
The participants will be accommodated in the Guest House/Hotel during the training. The cost of any additional stay (beyond the dates of training) would be at the trainee's own expense. Plans for an extended stay needs to be given in advance.
Additional information on the course will be provided to all the participants who are selected for admission to the course.
Applications are invited from researchers who are familiar with basic molecular and cell biology techniques and want to learn proteomics and metabolomics applications in agriculture using the most recent and advanced Mass spectrometry systems. While previous experience in this technology is not required, it is expected that the participants have fundamental knowledge and working experience on chromatography. The application can be accessed from the following link provided in the brochure. https://forms.office.com/r/BGPSdyxcLp
Note: The completed application should be submitted through the link or sent to bioncube@icrisat.org with copy to yogendra.kalenahalli@icrisat.org and wricha.tyagi@icrisat.org
Dr Yogendra Kalenahalli
Scientist
Accelerated Crop Improvement
yogendra.kalenahalli@icrisat.org
Padmaja Ravula
Deputy Global Research Program Director
Enabling Systems Transformation
Cluster Leader: Markets, Institutions and Policies
International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Padmaja.ravula@icrisat.org
The application can be accessed from the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/BGPSdyxcLp
Global Research Program Director - Enabling Systems Transformation - Ghana
Cluster Leader – Knowledge and Capacity Development & Gender and Youth - India
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