News
New chair: Seed systems and agrobiodiversity
Stef de Haan has been appointed professor by special appointment in Seed Systems and Agrobiodiversity at Wageningen University & Research. Effective 1 September, the new chair will be part of the Biosystematics chair group. This will be supported by the International Potato Center (CIP), which is part of the global research partnership CGIAR. ‘I hope that our research can make a difference for the global rural population, particularly for the more disadvantaged farmers who need to earn a living in challenging, marginal agroecosystems,’ says De Haan in a response.
Over 10 percent of the edible plant species in the world are threatened. Preserving traditional agricultural crops and their wild relatives is even more important. Effective seed systems - from seed storage and distribution to breeding - and integrated conservation can help prevent the loss of plant diversity. Stef de Haan has studied agrobiodiversity at CIP for many years, looking for the best methods to preserve traditional agricultural crops in their centres of origin.
Long history of seed research
‘We are very pleased with the appointment of Stef de Haan as a special professor,’ says Richard Harrison, managing director of the Plant Sciences Group at WUR. ‘His expertise and dedication are of great value to our mission to promote sustainable agricultural practices worldwide. His embedding within CIP and more broadly the CGIAR network offers great opportunities for closer alliances. Moreover, we have a long tradition of research into seed systems in Wageningen; with his appointment, we continue that tradition.’
In his role as professor by special appointment in Seed Systems and Agrobiodiversity, De Haan will continue to promote the preservation of as many traditional crops and their wild relatives as possible. There will also be a focus on less familiar and forgotten crops. That benefits ecological sustainability and food diversity. Furthermore, these plants contain genetic properties that may be useful to make crops more resistant to climate change. De Haan also wants to contribute to the creation of a virtual seed academy, which will offer new opportunities for training and knowledge sharing.
‘For many reasons, this is a dream come true,’ Stef de Haan describes his appointment. ‘It’s recognition of the relevance of my work. I’m looking forward to working with new colleagues and young researchers. The fact that my chair is part of the Wageningen Biosystematics Group makes it even more special. Because that was where I did my PhD research until 2009.’
International Potato Center (CIP)
With over 50 years of research and development in potatoes, sweet potatoes and less well-known root and tuber crops, the International Potato Center (CIP) has helped improve food and nutrition security, economic growth and welfare. The CIP genebank is one of the largest in vitro genebanks in the world. It contains the global collection of potatoes, sweet potatoes and Andean root and tuber crops.
CIP plant scientists work with local partners and farmers to develop varieties more resistant to extreme climate conditions, pests and diseases, which deliver stable yields, and have better nutritional and culinary properties. The institute is part of the CGIAR.
CGIAR
CGIAR is a global partnership that focuses on research and innovation in agriculture. It aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices, increase food security, tackle climate change and reduce poverty. CGIAR genebanks protect a unique global collection of diversity of crops and trees. CGIAR brings together leading research institutes, government agencies and the private sector to address these global challenges.