Plant Genetics

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The study of plant genetics involves research into the hereditary traits of plants, with a focus on variations and means of transmission. The field may be divided into functional genomics (how genes work), structural genomics (where genes are located), or it could follow genetic patterns within certain populations to further understand the background of plant evolution.

Scientists who specialize in these areas are known as plant geneticists and most often will concentrate on the process of selective breeding to ensure the best plants are harvested. A subcategory of this specialty would include the focus on gene identification, with the objective of creating plants that are improvements upon the parent species. These scientists are known as molecular plant geneticists. They strive to continually improve the quality of fiber and nutrients contained within the plant. Read this article to learn more about the importance of molecular plant genetics in present day plant breeding programs.

Plant geneticists will often work with commercial companies to enhance agricultural production on plants such as wheat, tomatoes, grapes, and soybeans. Private companies will also contract with plant geneticists to produce new seeds and variances of trees, vegetables, and grains used in everyday life. These scientists play a crucial role in the research, education, and regulation of our food production and consumption, as well as in methods of genetic transfer currently used in food production (as described in this article), which are both regulated by government agencies.

A plant geneticist would first obtain a degree in plant science, horticulture, biochemistry, forestry, agronomy, or biology. Each of these majors requires a heavy focus in mathematics, biochemistry, microbiology, chemistry, and biology. Furthermore, it would be highly recommended to earn a graduate degree in one of these fields to qualify for more complex research positions.

Examples of courses in plant genetics would include:

• Botany
• Integrated principles of biology
• Trigonometry
• General chemistry
• Macroeconomics
• Microeconomics
• Physics
• Ecology
• Plant pest management
• Plant production and management
• Physiology and ecology of crops
• Plant breeding
• Nutrition of horticulture
• Politics and ecology

Students interested in learning more about plant genetics and breeding might consider reading this book by George Acquaah or this article, published in Genome Biology, about the future of plant biology and the next generation of plant genetics.

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