A new Advanta Seeds biotech research station is in the works following a new partnership between Advanta and Texas A&M AgriLife Research. The goal of the facility, which will support all global Advanta Seeds research programs, is to further seed technology R&D. The research will focus on several key crops: sorghum, tropical and subtropical corn, hot peppers and corn. In addition, the research station will apply molecular markers to plant breeding in several additional crops including sunflower, canola, wheat and rice to name a few.

“This research is important to provide farmers with new products and novel traits and higher yielding hybrids stable across the seasons,” said Global R&D Director of Advanta Seeds Dr. Alberto Leon. “This is a new investment that demonstrates the serious the commitment by Advanta Seeds and UPL Group to innovation, and most importantly commitment to farmers and sustainable food production in the face of global food supply challenges.”

Advanta Seeds is a member of the the UPL Group and is a global research, development, production, seller of high-performance seeds and agricultural solutions.

Ben Adams, business director-North America for Advanta Seeds, added, “This effort will accelerate and expand our rich history of seed breeding and development to further enhance the profitability and sustainability of growers. We expect new technologies and traits to improve tolerances to drought, pests, insecticides and herbicides as well as increase yields.”

In a press release, Advanta Seeds reported Texas A&M was chosen due to their proven leadership in plant breeding. Also of note is the institution’s relationships with local and state government entities.

“We are excited about this agreement with Advanta Seeds because of their outstanding reputation in seed development,” concluded Craig Nessler, Director of Texas A&M AgriLife Research. “This will also allow our scientists to participate in cutting-edge research with a world-class company.”