Bayer CropScience opens seed analytics laboratory in Singapore

Date:04-07-2011

Bayer CropScience has opened an expanded seed research laboratory in Singapore dedicated to support the development of new high-yielding and high-quality seed varieties and hybrids. The original rice seed analytics lab has been relocated and expanded to support a broader range of seed breeding and development activities across Asia/Pacific. Representing an investment around EUR 20 million over the next five years, the new research unit will work with cutting-edge technologies like DNA marker analysis and molecular assisted breeding.

The scientists at the new facility will work to screen and integrate innovative agronomic and quality traits in canola, corn, cotton, wheat, soybean and rice. Additionally, work will also focus on plant pathology for better control of diseases. Agronomic traits of interest include novel modes or enhanced resistance to diseases, pests and environmental stress. Quality traits of interest include for example better storability, easier processing, improved grain quality and nutritional profile, better cooking features and enhanced fiber quality in the case of cotton.

Molecular assisted breeding allows for delivering high value, competitive germplasm to the market more quickly. The expanded lab facility will enable the identification, validation, and deployment of new high-throughput and cost-effective molecular markers and marker detection systems to support the company’s elite breeding programs.

"With this investment, Bayer CropScience aims at developing new solutions to help increase yields and productivity to meet farmers’ needs, as well as quality traits to meet consumer needs,” said Sandra E. Peterson, CEO of Bayer CropScience during the inauguration. “This state-of-the-art facility is centrally located in Singapore in an ideal hub location to respond quickly to the needs of our breeders and seed production technicians across Asia/Pacific. Singapore has an established research and development structure and is a source of skilled staff. The new facility will increase the breeding capacity of Bayer CropScience.”

"Bayer CropScience’s seed research laboratory is an important addition to the growing cluster of agrotechnology activities in Singapore. While we are not an agricultural country, we have the capabilities, infrastructure and an intellectual property environment that leading agribusinesses can leverage to undertake regional R&D activities,” said Choon Shian Tan, Deputy Managing Director of Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).

Bayer CropScience expects the demand from its customers across Asia/Pacific for high-quality seeds to continue to increase and plans to further expand its seed business by investing in research and development as well as in infrastructure.

Currently 15 scientists and technicians are employed at the new seed analytics laboratory. The new lab has a capacity of more than 30 scientists and technicians, so it is well-positioned to support the future needs of Bayer CropScience’s expanding Asia/Pacific seed business.