Plant Breeding Graduate Education: Opinions about Critical Knowledge, Experience, and Skill Requirements from Public and Private Stakeholders Worldwide

Plant breeders play a critical role in crop improvement, yet recent studies have shown that there may not be enough skilled breeders to meet current and future demands. A survey of three expert stakeholders groups, public breeders from developed countries (PUB), pri- vate breeders from developed countries (PRI), and breeders from developing countries (DEV), was conducted to determine what knowledge, experiences, and skills plant breeding stu- dents should have at completion of a graduate degree. All groups recognized knowledge of plant breeding, statistics, and genetics, as well as experiences and skills in practical breeding, experimental design, and fi eld work as impor- tant. In addition, DEV and PUB stakeholders rated plant genetic resources and plant diversity, germplasm management, scientifi c communi- cation, and fi eld visits as important, and they emphasized interdisciplinary work, leadership, and teamwork. Each sector also highlighted unique needs. The DEV sector emphasized policy and law and regulatory, and the PUB sec- tor placed importance on extension and skills in lab techniques, assessing genetic diversity, and using genomic information. The PRI sector emphasized knowledge about biotechnology and seed business and experience in experi- mental design, and computer database and program management. Reassessment of plant breeding education programs should incorpo- rate new scientifi c knowledge and emerging technologies while retaining core knowledge and essential practices and skills.