Bayer Expands Wheat Breeding Stations
5 December 2011 Monheim – Bayer CropScience continues to grow its wheat breeding business with the opening of its European Wheat Breeding Center in Gatersleben, Germany.
According to a company statement, the new center will develop new wheat varieties with higher yields and improved properties for the Central European market. The new center, which will coordinate all of Bayer’s wheat breeding activities in Europe, will also be part of Bayer CropScience’s global network of wheat breeding stations.
“Bayer CropScience recognizes that wheat farmers need to improve yields to stay competitive and meet global demands,” said Dr. Mathias Kremer, head of BioScience at Bayer CropScience, in the statement. “Our experienced team at the new European Wheat Breeding Center will be able to deliver first-class varieties of wheat adapted to European growing conditions. These new varieties, together with our leading crop protection portfolio, will enable us to provide solutions supporting a sustainable wheat production from seed to harvest.”
Up to 40 full-time employees will work at the center in the future. Financial details have not been disclosed.
“The establishment of Bayer CropScience’s Wheat Breeding Center in Gatersleben is a substantial backing for plant biotechnology in Saxony-Anhalt. This technology is an important cornerstone for the further economical development of the state,” said Minister for Science and Economy in Saxony-Anhalt, Birgitta Wolff.
Another center focused on North America is currently being set up in the vicinity of Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. Additional stations are planned in Europe and Australia with further expansion in Asia and Latin America in the medium term, according to the company.
-Stefanie A. Toth, Content Editor
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