Three Genomic Projects at the U of S are receiving funding from Genome Canada.

U of S plant scientist Curtis Pozniak and National Research Council of Canada scientist Andrew Sharpe have been awarded $8.5 million to develop innovative genomic tools to support wheat breeding.

U of S plant scientists Kirstin Bett and Bert Vandenberg will head a $7.9-million project to determine the genetics underlying the ability of lentils to grow in different environments around the world.

While Andrew Potter, director of the U of S VIDO -InterVac, will co-lead a $7.4-million project with British Columbia colleague Robert Hancock to develop vaccines against two infectious diseases in cattle—Johne’s disease and bovine tuberculosis.

"This is how increases in production actually start. Research into how to produce more wheat, how to produce healthier pods and better calves, and those are pretty important things to agriculture in this province."

Stewart and Federal Ag Minister Lyle Stewart were on hand yesterday for the announcement.

"Canada's done a great job funding these types of projects across the country. A lot of this is foundational for agriculture, and it's a proud moment for me to be here to help announce it."

Research outcomes are expected to significantly contribute to Canada’s bio-economy and help address global food security and safety challenges.