 Genetics
and Institute for Plant Biotechonology (IPB)
The research focus areas of the Department follow the matrix structure according to which the department operates. Focus areas within plant, animal and human genetics include studies in quantitative (breeding), population and molecular (biotechnology) genetic fields. Research on plant genetics includes the molecular characterization of viral diseases with the goal of genetic modification of grapevines for enhanced virus resistance; the isolation and molecular characterisation of plant natiuretic peptides in grapevine and their possible application in enhanced drought and disease resistance and wheat and triticale breeding. Animal genetics includes aquaculture research focused on studying the population structure and genetic diversity of various marine and freshwater fin- and shellfish species through the use of molecular analysis, and the genetic improvement of various species (trout, catfish, tilapia and abalone) for commercial production. Human genetics research entails the analysis of genes implicated in iron regulation, the haem biosynthetic pathway and drug metabolism as well as pharmacogenetic application in disease in South African populations (candidate gene screens and tailoring treatment).
The Faculty of AgriSciences is currently supporting GENEdiagnostics. The company helps clients to prevent the symptoms of genetic diseases through genetic testing.
Academic:
Prof JT Burger (Chairperson, Molecular Genetics, Virology)
WC Botes (Population Genetics, Plant Breeding)
Prof D Brink (Animal Breeding, Aquaculture)
AM La Grange (Biometry)
Dr R Roodt-Wilding (Molecular Genetics, Aquaculture)
A Sadie (Biometry)
Prof L Warnich (Molecular Genetics, Human Genetics)
Dr MG Zaahl (Human Genetics)
Technical:
A Adams*, M Engelbrecht, VR Human,L Korkie, K Salie*, H Saul, HB Stander*, AE van der Merwe, L van der Merwe
Administrative:
MJ Allison (Departmental Manager), M Meyer (Secretary)
Supporting:
B Fihlani*, MDW Kannemeyer, E Titus, C Touti, S van Wyk*
* Permanent staff paid from outside funds
Contact information:
Tel: +27 21 808 5839
www.sun.ac.za/genetics
Institute
for Plant Biotechnology
The Institute for Plant Biotechnology (IPB) represents a multi-cultural and inter-disciplinary team of researchers and postgraduate students that focus on research opportunities in plant biotechnology. Research of the Institute focuses on four areas: (1) carbohydrate partitioning in higher plants, (2) engineering of biopolymer synthesis, (3) plant growth and (4) plant tolerance to abiotic stress.
Academic:
Prof JM Kossmann (Plant Carbohydrate Metabolism)
Dr PN Hills (Seed Germination, Plant Growth)
Dr JR Lloyd (Plant Carbohydrate Metabolism)
Dr NN Ludidi (Plant Tolerance to Abiotic Stress)
Technical:
JP Bekker, C van der Vyver
Administrative:
E. Deluse (Secretary)
Supporting:
G Fredericks, N Vellem, O Xegwane Contact information:
Tel: +27 21 808 3834
www.sun.ac.za/ipb | 
