This workshop is designed to give the non-hybrid breeder, or any other interested individual, with an introductory overview of a hybrid breeding program. Participants will be introduced to basic terminology and an overview of the structure and complexity of a comprehensive hybrid breeding program for which the end goal is release or commercialization of a genetically improved hybrid cultivar.

Participants will also spend time in the university’s maize breeding nursery, where they will see how the described components translate into actual breeding materials within a plant breeding nursery. The workshop emphasizes a strong industry perspective, based on the maize breeding model.