INIAV and BEANS Network Launch Advanced International Online Training on Plant Breeding and Genetics Applications

(Deadline for application 31^st August 2026)

In response to the pressing challenges of climate change, food security, and the transition towards more sustainable agricultural systems, the BEANS Network is promoting collaborative initiatives that advance knowledge, strengthen capacities, and foster innovation around legumes. Among these initiatives are high‑level training programmes led by network members, designed to encourage knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the development of new scientific collaborations.

Within this framework, the Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária (INIAV, Portugal), in partnership with the BEANS Network, is launching an Advanced International Online Training Course on Plant Breeding and Genetics Applications for National Programs.

The training is organized and managed by Ana Luísa Garcia Oliveira, researcher at INIAV, in collaboration with the BEANS Network. It will run from 14 October to 10 November 2026, through five weekly online sessions.

This online training is tailored to strengthen the expertise of young researchers, plant breeders, and molecular breeding specialists, while fostering exchanges among leading scientists and research institutions worldwide.

The programme will cover the major fields of modern plant breeding, including breeding strategies, high-throughput phenotyping, genomic selection, data management and analysis, artificial intelligence for plant breeding, machine learning, agroecology, and regulatory frameworks for bio-innovation. Combining lectures, demonstrations and case studies, the course will provide participants with practical knowledge directly applicable to national breeding programmes.

The training will bring together internationally recognised experts from leading institutions, including the University of Minnesota, ICARDA, CIMMYT, Bayer, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), IITA, CGIAR, CIRAD, the University of Guelph, HIPHEN, ITQB and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). This broad range of expertise reflects the BEANS Network's commitment to promoting scientific exchange and strengthening international cooperation in plant breeding and genetics.

The course is primarily intended for young researchers, plant breeders and molecular breeding specialists holding a PhD or engaged in postdoctoral research. Applications are welcome from candidates worldwide, and women are particularly encouraged to apply.

Certificates will be awarded to participants who successfully complete all training sessions. Applications should include a one-page CV and a motivation letter explaining the relevance of the training to both the applicant and their institution.

Practical Information

·       Training: Online Advanced Training on Plant Breeding and Genetics Applications for National Programs

·       Dates: 14 October - 10 November 2026

·       Format: Online (five weekly sessions)

·       Application deadline: 31^st August 2026

·       Applications: Please send a one-page CV and a motivation letter to ana.oliveira@iniav.pt.