2008 FALL SEMESTER

This course is designed to be exploratory in nature providing you with an overview of the seed industry and seed technology. Emphasis will focus on seed quality in the broadest sense, seed testing methodologies, quality assurance systems, genetic purity and identification processes, and newer technologies in the marketplace.  Hopefully you will also develop a better understanding of the importance of seed as a major input in agricultural production, and see some of the professional career opportunities available in the seed industry.

Course Highlights:

• Introductory session: course objectives; goals; field trip plans; importance and value of the seed industry
• Overview of seed labeling; seed testing; sampling; understanding the big picture
• First class at Indiana Crop Improvement Association: tour facilities and discuss ICIA responsibilities and programs
• Sampling; sequential sampling; independent replications; statistics; test method validation
• Varietal purity evaluation: field & laboratory. Isozyme analysis; PAGE testing; overview of DNA & related methods for variety identification
• Field trip to “state of the art” seed conditioning plant
• Basic seed germination testing: methods; rules - Lab Exercise
• Introduction to seed vigor & diagnostic testing: methods & procedures - Lab Exercise
• Physical (mechanical) purity testing – Lab Exercise
• Biotech traits in the seed industry (guest speakers)
• Trait testing methodology: bioassay testing; ELISA (protein) testing; lateral flow strips - Lab exercise & Case Study
• DNA methods & PCR testing - Lab Exercise
• Genetic development: crop variety testing; intellectual property rights; licensing (Guest speakers)