Plant scientists meet in Manawatu

The conference, organised by the New Zealand Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Science and New Zealand Society of Plant Biologists, will feature a range of leading scientists from universities, Crown Research Institutes and other research organisations.

Massey senior lecturer in horticulture Dr Jason Wargent will talk about his research into how ultra-violet light can affect the growth and resilience of vegetable crops.

Another Massey researcher, Professor Julian Heyes (pictured) , will discuss his work at the Vanuatu Agricultural Research and Technical Centre and outline ways in which New Zealand researchers can engage with scientists there. His colleague Dr Andrew East is speaking about the potential to predict kiwifruit storage potential with non-destructive testing.

Associate Professor Cory Matthew will talk about drought resistance in ryegrass, while Dr Huub Kerckhoffs will talk about a closed-loop nitrogen supply cropping system.

Professor Heyes, who chairs the conference organising committee, says it is a great opportunity for plant scientists to meet and discuss research projects.

"Massey University has a high proportion of the country's plant scientists," he says. "Bringing representatives from seven universities and two CRIs together for this meeting is a great way of showcasing our expertise and building collaboration. Our national science conferences are also the perfect setting for postgraduate students to build confidence before they launch onto the international stage."

More information about the conference can be found here: http://plantbiology.science.org.nz/events.